—n.
1 a small pouch of leather etc. for carrying money on the person.
2 US a handbag.
3 a receptacle resembling a purse in form or purpose.
4 money, funds.
5 a sum collected as a present or given as a prize in a contest.
—v.
1 tr. (often foll. by up) pucker or contract (the lips).
2 intr. become contracted and wrinkled.
Phrases and idioms:
hold the purse-strings have control of expenditure. the public purse the national treasury.
Etymology: OE purs f. med.L bursa, byrsa purse f. Gk bursa hide, leather
Useful english dictionary. 2012.