Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Packing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📦
Add to dictionary

packing

[ˈpækɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

for travel

The act or process of putting things into containers or wrapping them up ready for moving or storing.

Synonyms

boxing, containerizing, wrapping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
packing

General term used when organizing and putting items into boxes or suitcases, especially for travel or moving.

  • I'm packing my clothes for the trip
  • She started packing the kitchen items for the move
wrapping

Refers to covering items with paper, plastic, or other materials, often used for gifts or protection.

  • She's wrapping the gifts for the party
  • Make sure to wrap the fragile items in bubble wrap
boxing

Specifically refers to putting items into boxes, often used when moving or shipping items.

  • He's boxing all the books for the move
  • The warehouse team is boxing the orders for delivery
containerizing

Used in an industrial or shipping context, referring to loading items into large containers for transport.

  • They're containerizing goods for international shipping
  • The company specializes in containerizing large shipments

Examples of usage

  • Make sure you have all the necessary supplies for packing.
  • She started packing her suitcase for the trip.
  • The packing of fragile items should be done with extra care.
Context #2 | Noun

for shipping

The materials used to protect goods in transit, especially to prevent breakage.

Synonyms

packaging, padding, wrapping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
packing

Typically used when putting items into boxes, bags, or suitcases for storage or transport.

  • I need help with packing my clothes for the trip
  • The packing of the dishes should be done carefully to avoid breakage
packaging

Refers to the materials and process used for wrapping or covering products for sale, transport, or storage; often involves design and branding.

  • The packaging of this product is very attractive
  • We need to consider eco-friendly packaging solutions
wrapping

Refers to the process or materials used to cover a gift or item, usually for decorative or protective purposes.

  • Her birthday gift had beautiful wrapping
  • Wrapping the furniture in plastic will protect it during the move
padding

Used to describe materials added to protect or cushion items, often inside packaging or for furniture and clothing.

  • The padding inside the box kept the glass vase from breaking
  • My winter coat has extra padding for warmth

Examples of usage

  • The fragile items were securely protected with packing materials.
  • He ordered extra packing to ensure the safety of the shipment.
Context #3 | Noun

for storage

Material used to protect goods when they are stored or transported.

Synonyms

cushioning, insulation, wrapping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
packing

Appropriate for describing the process of placing items into containers for transportation or storage.

  • She quickly finished packing her suitcase for the trip.
  • The company specializes in packing and shipping goods internationally.
wrapping

Describes the action or process of covering items, typically for protection, gift-giving, or aesthetics.

  • She spent the afternoon wrapping Christmas presents.
  • The sandwich was tightly wrapped in foil.
cushioning

Used to describe soft materials used to protect fragile items from damage during transport or storage.

  • Bubble wrap provides good cushioning for delicate items.
  • He added extra cushioning to the box to prevent the glass from breaking.
insulation

Generally refers to materials used to prevent heat, sound, or electricity from passing through a surface, often used in construction or manufacturing.

  • The walls have good insulation to keep the house warm in winter.
  • He used foam insulation to reduce noise in his recording studio.

Examples of usage

  • The packing for the delicate china was carefully chosen.
  • The packing of the furniture was essential to prevent damage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, packing efficiency refers to how tightly objects can be packed together, impacting materials science and engineering.
  • Studies in condensed matter physics explore the behavior of particles in packed states, which has applications in creating stronger materials.
  • The concept of packing density is crucial in chemistry and biology, influencing everything from molecular structures to cell organization.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of films, 'packing' can symbolize the start of an adventure, as seen in many movies where characters rush to gather their belongings.
  • Packing for a journey is a common theme in literature, representing change or the beginning of new experiences.
  • Popular video games often feature 'packing' mechanics where players must organize items strategically for optimal gameplay.

Psychology

  • The act of packing can evoke emotions; it is often tied to nostalgia and preparation for transitions in life.
  • Studies show that how one packs can reflect their personality – some people are meticulous, while others are more spontaneous.
  • Packing can also be a therapeutic activity, helping individuals sort their thoughts and emotions during times of change.

Literature

  • Packing is a common motif in stories, often representing the weighing of choices and the burden of what to take on a journey.
  • Many authors use the act of packing to develop characters and convey their relationships through the items they choose to bring.
  • In poetry, the imagery of packing can symbolize the ideas of loss, memory, and the passage of time as one moves from one phase of life to another.

Origin of 'packing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Middle English 'pakke,' which means to bundle or wrap.
  • It’s related to the Old French 'pacquer,' which also means to pack or bundle.
  • The term has evolved over time, gaining nuances in meaning to include various forms of storage and organization.

The word 'packing' originated from the Old English word 'pacian', meaning 'to pack'. It has been used for centuries to describe the act of putting things into containers or wrapping them up. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various contexts such as travel, shipping, and storage. Packing plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and protection of goods during transportation and storage.

See also: pack, package, packaging, packed, packer, packet, unpack.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,038 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.