portemonnaie

Portemonnaie is a small, portable container used to carry money and payment instruments. The term derives from the French porte-monnaie, meaning “money purse,” and is widely used in German-speaking regions. In practice, a portemonnaie denotes a wallet that can hold banknotes, coins, and cards, though regional variations exist; some speakers use Geldbörse, Brieftasche, or Geldbeutel for similar items.

Design and features vary, but most portemonnaies are designed to fit in a pocket or bag. Common forms include bifold and trifold layouts, each with compartments for banknotes, a coin pocket, and multiple card slots. Some models include an ID window, a transparent card slot, or a separate coin pouch with a zipper. Closures may be simple folds, snap buttons, or zippers. Materials range from genuine leather to synthetic leather and fabric, affecting durability, feel, and price. Sizes vary to accommodate different numbers of cards and cash, from compact minimalist designs to larger bi- or tri-folds.

Regional variation and style considerations influence choice. In German-speaking areas, portemonnaie and brieftasche are both used, with preferences depending on locality and fashion. Fashion and function converge in features such as slim profiles for pocketability, and larger designs for more organization..Security features and anti-identity-theft measures, like RFID-blocking layers, are increasingly common in modern wallets.

Digital evolution has reduced reliance on cash for some users, but portemonnaie remains a standard physical means of carrying money and cards, often as a personal accessory reflecting material, build quality, and style.