Definition

A large military backpack designed to carry everything a soldier needs for extended operations, typically weighing enough to make you question every life choice that led to this moment. From the German for 'back sack,' which is brutally honest.

Example Usage

Pack your rucksack for a three-day patrol—water, ammo, and socks, in that order.

Origin

From German 'Rucksack,' combining 'Rücken' (back) and 'Sack' (bag), adopted into English military use

Fun Fact

The average combat-loaded rucksack weighs 60-80 pounds, roughly equivalent to carrying a small adult on your back through terrain while people shoot at you.

Source: Standard military equipment terminology

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