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Meaning & use

package

noun, verb·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˈpækɪdʒ/
US/ˈpækɪdʒ/

Meanings

  1. nouncountable

    An object or set of objects wrapped or boxed together, especially one sent or delivered by mail.

    Grammar: Countable; use 'a package' or 'packages'. Often followed by 'for' or 'from' someone.

    Patterns

    • a package for someone
    • a package from someone
    • send a package
    • receive a package

    A package arrived for you this morning.

    She sent a package to her brother in Canada.

    The mail carrier left a package on the doorstep.

  2. nouncountable

    A set of related items, benefits, or services offered together as a single deal.

    Grammar: Countable; often used in business or travel contexts. Usually followed by 'of'.

    Patterns

    • a package of something
    • a package deal
    • offer a package
    • benefits package

    The job comes with a generous benefits package.

    They bought a vacation package that included flights and hotels.

    The software package includes word processing and spreadsheets.

  3. verbtransitive

    To put something into a box, wrapper, or container, often to prepare it for sale or shipping.

    Grammar: Takes an object: package the goods. Often used in the passive: the goods are packaged.

    Patterns

    • package something for someone
    • package something in something
    • package goods

    The company packages its cookies in recyclable boxes.

    We need to package these items before the courier arrives.

    The meat is packaged and labeled for sale.

  4. verbtransitive

    To present someone or something in an attractive way to appeal to a particular audience.

    Grammar: Takes an object; often used with 'as': package someone as something.

    Patterns

    • package someone as something
    • package something as something
    • package a product

    The marketing team packaged the candidate as a fresh, young leader.

    They packaged the new product as an affordable luxury.

    The film was packaged as a family-friendly adventure.

Word forms

pluralpackages
third person singularpackages
past tensepackaged
past participlepackaged
-ing formpackaging

Common combinations

package deal
They bought a package deal that included airfare and hotel.
benefits package
The benefits package includes health insurance and a pension.
package tour
We booked a package tour of Italy.
send a package
I need to send a package to my sister.
package goods
The factory packages goods for export.
package something as something
They packaged the event as a charity fundraiser.

Synonyms and how they differ

parcel
A parcel is usually a package sent by mail, often in a paper wrapper; package is more general and can be any wrapped or boxed item.
packet
A packet is a small container, often made of paper or plastic, for goods like sugar or seeds; a package can be larger and boxed.
bundle
A bundle is a group of items tied or wrapped together, often without a box; a package is usually boxed or wrapped for shipping.

Word family

packaging noun
The materials used to wrap or protect goods, or the process of wrapping.
packager noun
A person or company that packages things.
pack verb
To put things into a bag or box, especially for travel.

Commonly confused: package or packet?

package vs packet

A packet is a small paper or plastic container for goods like cigarettes or sugar; a package is usually larger and often sent by mail.

Practice

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