Billfold
In Southern and Appalachian speech, a "billfold" is a wallet-a small folding case for carrying paper money and cards. The word’s still common among older speakers, especially men.
synonyms: wallet, pocketbook (regional), money holder
Hillbilly Dude Says...
Just like my Dad, I've called it a 'billfold' all my life. This one's common. Pronunciation
[BIL-fohld] /ˈbɪlˌfoʊld/
Meaning & Usage
- A small folding wallet for paper bills (noun)
Mama:
You got any cash on you?
You got any cash on you?
Daddy:
Check my billfold on the dresser.
Check my billfold on the dresser.variations: wallet
Origin and Etymology
Coined in the United States in the late 1800s from "bill" (paper money) and "fold." The term caught on strongly in the South and Midwest, where it remained the everyday word for "wallet" through much of the 20th century.
Usage Notes
Still widely recognized, though younger generations tend to say "wallet." "Billfold" carries an old-fashioned, plainspoken tone and often appears in stories, country songs, and local speech.
- Common among older Southern and Midwestern men
- Often kept in the back pocket-"Grab my billfold, will ya?"
- Distinct from a woman’s pocketbook or purse