attaché case
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Puzzle #304 · April 1, 2026
An attaché case is a slim, hard-sided briefcase with a hinged lid, originally carried by diplomatic attachés—officials assigned to an embassy. The word “attaché” is French for “attached,” referring to someone attached to a diplomatic mission.
The attaché case became an icon of Cold War espionage and mid-century business culture. James Bond carried one in From Russia with Love, rigged with a throwing knife, gold coins, and a tear gas cartridge. In the 1960s through 1980s, an attaché case signaled authority and seriousness. It has largely been replaced by the laptop bag and backpack, victims of the shift toward casual office culture.
The attaché case became an icon of Cold War espionage and mid-century business culture. James Bond carried one in From Russia with Love, rigged with a throwing knife, gold coins, and a tear gas cartridge. In the 1960s through 1980s, an attaché case signaled authority and seriousness. It has largely been replaced by the laptop bag and backpack, victims of the shift toward casual office culture.
Puzzle Appearances
The expression attaché case has appeared in 1 puzzle:
- Puzzle #304 on April 1, 2026
Rate of Appearance in English Language Print
Google's Ngram project shows how often a pair of words has appeared in print every year since the 1800's.
Data from Google Books Ngram Viewer. Licensed under CC BY 3.0.
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