Third World briefcase

English

Etymology

So called from the size and shape (with carrying handle) and their stereotypical popularity among poor black youth.

Noun

Third World briefcase (plural Third World briefcases)

1. (slang, humorous, offensive) A portable ghetto blaster.
   • 1987, Thomas Caplan, Parallelogram, page 121:

     Be a bum in this part of town, he knew, keep rhythm with your fingers, sport a Walkman or a third-world briefcase—people might shrug, but they would never remember your face.

   • 1991, Ralph McInerny, Judas Priest, page 122:

     "Do you have a cassette tape player?"
     "I've got a Third World briefcase," Katie said to Agnes, and then turned scarlet, thinking the black officer would take offense.