Definition of the word grab bag

The term "grab bag" originated in the mid-19th century in England when a businessman named Thomas J. Smith came up with the concept of a surprise gift box. The box contained a mix of various wares, and the buyer had to pick out their desired item without knowing what was inside. This concept became popular at carnivals and fairs, where vendors sold these mystery boxes to entertain audiences. The name "grab bag" was coined to describe the literal grabbing and pulling out of objects from the bag without knowing what was inside. This old-fashioned marketing technique is still used today at events like fundraisers and corporate gatherings to create excitement and generate revenue through chance prizes.