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noun Uncommon

bergen

BUR-guhn

Bergen (noun) means a large framed rucksack, historically used by the military, worn on the back for carrying heavy gear. Example: “Each recruit was issued a bergen packed with 30kg of kit for the march.”

noun
1
A large framed rucksack, historically used by the military, worn on the back for carrying heavy gear.
"Each recruit was issued a bergen packed with 30kg of kit for the march."

How to use bergen

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA large military-style backpack, a term used mainly in British English.

When to use it

Mostly used in British and Commonwealth military contexts; Americans would usually just say "rucksack" or "pack."

Word forms

bergens plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Each recruit was issued a _____ packed with 30kg of kit for the march.

Etymology

Shortened from "Bergen rucksack," likely named after its Norwegian creator, and linked to the city of Bergen in Norway.

Origin: Norwegian

Frequently asked questions

What does “bergen” mean?

The word “bergen” means a large framed rucksack, historically used by the military, worn on the back for carrying heavy gear. In plain terms, a large military-style backpack, a term used mainly in British English.

How do you pronounce “bergen”?

“Bergen” is pronounced BUR-guhn (/ˈbəɹɡən/ in IPA).

How do you use “bergen” in a sentence?

Here is “bergen” used in a sentence: “Each recruit was issued a bergen packed with 30kg of kit for the march.”

What part of speech is “bergen”?

“Bergen” is a noun.

Where does the word “bergen” come from?

The word “bergen” comes from Norwegian. Shortened from "Bergen rucksack," likely named after its Norwegian creator, and linked to the city of Bergen in Norway.

Is “bergen” a common word?

“Bergen” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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