kieszeni

Kieszeń is a Polish noun meaning a pocket, a small compartment designed to hold items. In everyday use, kieszeń refers to the pocket found in clothing such as jackets, shirts, trousers, and coats, as well as pockets integrated into bags and other accessories. The form kieszeni appears in phrases that indicate position or origin, for example w kieszeni (in the pocket) or z kieszeni (from the pocket).

Pockets vary by location, function, and construction. External pockets are commonly found on the front or sides of garments, while internal pockets are tucked inside linings for security and protection. Special pockets include coin pockets, watch pockets, and cargo pockets on workwear or casual pants. Closures such as buttons, zippers, flaps, or simply open designs can affect how a pocket is used. Materials range from denim and cotton to leather and synthetic fabrics, with finishes that influence durability and appearance.

Beyond clothing, kieszeń can describe pockets or recesses in bags, upholstery, or even certain fixtures where small items are stored. The term also appears in everyday idioms about possession, such as having something in one’s pocket, reflecting the practical role of pockets in daily life.

Etymology traces the word to Polish roots and its basic, widely understood use across different domains. In related languages, the concept exists with different terms, but kieszeń remains the standard Polish word for a pocket. See also: pocket (in English).