bedroll

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bedroll" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a portable sleeping bag or bedding that can be rolled up for easy transport, often used in camping or outdoor activities. Example: "After a long day of hiking, I unrolled my bedroll and settled down for the night under the stars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Last year, the city issued a new rule that allowed the homeless to have only three belongings with them: a bedroll, backpack and beverage.

The Guardian

He hid his work in his bedroll and bribed friendly guards to smuggle it out.

The Economist

He writes of penury, mud, flea-bitten puttees, a tired greatcoat, wet boots, a damp bedroll plus fireside sing-songs with murderous gypsies.

Independent

As they roam the concrete blocks, they are shown the bleak cell, barely 6ft square, where prisoner number 46664 spent years with nothing but a bedroll on the floor, a tiny stool and a ceramic pot.

Independent

For the hardcore, there is cooking over an open fire, with a bedroll in a tent.

Independent

Louis had heard that a surveyor for the train company had been beaten to death south of Tallahassee after climbing into another man's bedroll stark naked — a fairy, a funny one, the men hissed.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Columns paraded with bedrolls and sacks of stolen rice on their heads.

The Economist

Mr. Matsuo dashed up the front steps into the house and dived among the bedrolls and buried himself there.

The New Yorker

On August 26th, both she and her younger daughter, Myeko, woke up feeling extremely weak and tired, and they stayed on their bedrolls.

The New Yorker

Soufan and the other F.B.I. agents were quartered at the Aden Hotel, crammed in with other U.S. military and government employees, including Marine guards, and billeted three and four to a room; several dozen slept on bedrolls in the hotel ballroom.

The New Yorker

She put the children in their bedrolls on the floor, lay down herself at three o'clock, and fell asleep at once, so soundly that when planes passed over later, she did not waken to their sound.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "bedroll" with descriptive adjectives like 'worn', 'damp', or 'compact' to enhance the imagery in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "bedroll" in modern, luxurious camping scenarios; instead, opt for terms like "sleeping bag" or "camping mattress" to better suit the context.

Linguistic Context

Bedroll primarily functions as a noun, referring to a portable roll of bedding used for sleeping outdoors or in basic conditions. It is often used to describe a basic necessity for travelers, campers, or those in temporary living situations, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "bedroll" is a grammatically sound noun that refers to a portable roll of bedding. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used, primarily in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "sleeping bag" are more common in modern usage, "bedroll" is appropriate for historical or outdoor scenarios. When using the term, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended imagery and setting. While the term is considered correct, it is important to avoid using "bedroll" in luxurious camping scenarios. The semantic alternatives include: "sleeping bag", "roll of bedding", and "portable sleeping mat".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sleeping bag

Replaces "bedroll" with a more common and modern term for portable bedding.

roll of bedding

Describes "bedroll" in more general terms, emphasizing the rolled-up nature of the bedding.

outdoor bedding

Highlights the use of the bedding for outdoor activities.

portable sleeping mat

Focuses on the mat-like aspect of a bedroll, suitable for sleeping.

travel bedding

Emphasizes the portability and use of the bedding while traveling.

swag

An Australian term synonymous with "bedroll", especially in outback contexts.

camping gear

Broader term that includes "bedroll" as part of a set of equipment.

sleeping equipment

General term that encompasses various items used for sleeping outdoors.

field cot

Alternative for a more structured and raised sleeping arrangement in a field setting, similar in purpose but different in form.

night gear

Refers to items needed for overnight stays, including bedding.

FAQs

How is a "bedroll" different from a sleeping bag?

A "bedroll" is a more general term for a roll of bedding, often including blankets and a mat, while a sleeping bag is a specific type of insulated bedding. A "sleeping bag" is typically more compact and designed for colder temperatures.

What items are typically included in a "bedroll"?

A "bedroll" usually includes a blanket or quilt, a sleeping mat or ground cloth, and sometimes a pillow or other comfort items, all rolled together for easy transport. This makes it a versatile option for camping and travel.

Is "bedroll" an outdated term?

While "bedroll" might evoke a sense of older, more traditional camping, it is still a valid and understood term. Modern equivalents like "sleeping bag" or "camping mat" are more common in contemporary usage, but "bedroll" is appropriate in historical or specific outdoor contexts.

Can I use "swag" instead of "bedroll"?

"Swag" is an Australian term that is synonymous with "bedroll", particularly in the context of outback camping or travel. While "swag" can be used, it's important to consider your audience, as "swag" might not be universally understood outside of Australia.