Pack: meaning, definitions and examples

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pack

[pæk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

group of items

A pack is a group of items that have been bundled or wrapped together for convenience, transport, or storage. Packs can vary in size and shape depending on the items being bundled. They are commonly used for hiking, camping, or traveling.

Synonyms

bundle, package, sack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pack	Usually used when referring to a collection of items, often for travel or shipping. Can also be used as a verb meaning to gather and store items. I need to pack my luggage for the trip. The wolves hunt in a pack.
bundle	Often used when items are tightly bound together, such as sheaves of papers or sticks. The magazine came with a bundle of coupons. She tied the sticks into a bundle.
package	Typically refers to a parcel prepared for shipment or delivery. It can also mean a comprehensive collection of items or services. I received a package from my friend today. The software package includes several useful tools.
sack	Mostly used to describe a large bag, often made of sturdy material, used for carrying bulk items such as groceries or mail. Can also have a negative connotation when used as a verb meaning to dismiss someone from their job. He carried a sack of potatoes over his shoulder. The company decided to sack several employees due to budget cuts.

Examples of usage

The hiker carried a pack containing food, water, and a first aid kit.
She packed a small pack with her essentials for the weekend trip.
The pack was heavy but necessary for the journey ahead.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

group of animals

In the animal kingdom, a pack refers to a group of animals that live, travel, or hunt together. These social groups often have a hierarchical structure with dominant and submissive members. Wolves, for example, are known to form packs for hunting and raising their young.

Synonyms

flock, group, herd.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pack	Describes a collection of items or belongings as well. Usually implies a collection for travel or use. She carried a small pack for her overnight trip. He opened a new pack of gum.
group	A general term that can refer to any collection of people, animals, or things. It's the most versatile and neutral option. There was a group of tourists at the museum. A group of friends decided to go hiking for the weekend.
herd	Often used for large groups of herbivorous animals like cows, elephants, or deer. It’s usually applied in a farming or wildlife context. The farmer brought in his herd of cattle for milking. A herd of elephants was spotted at the waterhole.
flock	Typically refers to a group of birds or sheep. It's often used in a pastoral or rural context. A flock of birds flew across the sky at dawn. The shepherd guided his flock to the meadow.

Examples of usage

The wolf pack worked together to bring down a large elk.
Lions are known for their strong social bonds within the pride pack.
The pack of hyenas scavenged for food in the savanna.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

to put items into a container

To pack means to put items into a container or suitcase for storage, transport, or shipment. Packing efficiently is important to maximize space and protect fragile items. It can also refer to compressing items tightly to fit more into a limited space.

Synonyms

fill, load, stuff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pack	Suitable for situations where you are organizing items into a container, typically for travel or moving purposes. I need to pack my suitcase for the trip. She packs her children's lunch every morning.
load	Appropriate for situations where you are putting items into a vehicle, machine, or system, often for transportation or processing. They loaded the truck with furniture for the move. Please load the washing machine and start the cycle.
stuff	Typically used in informal contexts where you are putting items into a container or space quickly or without much organization. Can have a negative connotation if implying carelessness. He stuffed all the clothes into the drawer. Don't just stuff everything into your bag; organize it properly.
fill	Used when you are placing substances or items into a container until it's full. Can you fill the bottle with water? The tank is almost empty; we need to fill it with gas.

Examples of usage

She carefully packed her clothes into the suitcase for the trip.
The movers packed the fragile items with extra padding to prevent breakage.
He had to pack everything he owned into boxes for the move.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Old French term 'pac', meaning to bundle or package.
In Middle English, 'packen' was used to define the action of wrapping or loading goods.
The concept of a 'pack' has evolved to include not just physical objects but also groups, like a pack of wolves.

Cultural Significance

Packing has cultural relevance in many travel traditions, such as preparing for a pilgrimage or festival.
In several Native American cultures, a pack often refers to community and family groups working together.
The idea of 'packing' is also prevalent in sports, like a 'pack of cyclists' riding closely together for aerodynamics.

Science

In biology, a 'pack' can describe a group of animals, indicating their social structures and behavior patterns.
Studies in ecology reveal that packs often cooperate in hunting or protecting their territory, showing teamwork in nature.
The term 'pack' is also used in computer science, referring to a collection of data or programs logically grouped together.

Literature

Packing often appears as a motif in stories where characters must prepare for journeys, symbolizing new beginnings.
In literature, a 'pack' can represent camaraderie, as seen in tales of adventurers traveling together.
Many authors use the concept of packing to illustrate themes of separation, as characters must leave behind their possessions.

Pop Culture

Movies often feature scenes where characters pack their bags, emphasizing the emotions tied to leaving or embarking on adventures.
In video games, 'packing' is a common feature where players must manage their inventory and tools effectively.
Television shows often illustrate friendships through the concept of 'packing' for group trips, highlighting interpersonal dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "pack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pacote

🇮🇳 पैकेज

🇩🇪 Paket

🇮🇩 paket

🇺🇦 пакет

🇵🇱 pakiet

🇯🇵 パック

🇫🇷 paquet

🇪🇸 paquete

🇹🇷 paket

🇰🇷 팩

🇸🇦 حزمة

🇨🇿 balíček

🇸🇰 balík

🇨🇳 包裹

🇸🇮 paket

🇮🇸 pakki

🇰🇿 пакет

🇬🇪 პაკეტი

🇦🇿 paket

🇲🇽 paquete

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,665, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

...
4662 trunk
4663 ceremony
4664 interstate
4665 pack
4666 finest
4667 lowered
4668 stimulation
...