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Parcel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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parcel

[ˈpɑːrsəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

delivery

A package containing goods or documents, typically transported by mail or courier.

Synonyms

consignment, package, shipment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
parcel

Used commonly in British English for a small package or bundle that is sent or delivered.

  • She received a parcel from her friend in London.
  • Please wrap the book carefully before sending it as a parcel.
package

A general term for any container or wrapped item, widely used in both British and American English. It can be small or large.

  • I got a package in the mail today.
  • Please check if the package contains all the items listed.
shipment

Used to discuss the process or action of sending goods, often in large quantities, typically for business or trade purposes.

  • The shipment of furniture is expected to arrive next week.
  • There was a delay in the shipment due to bad weather.
consignment

Often used in business and logistics to refer to a batch of goods destined for or delivered to someone. Can imply bulk or commercial transactions.

  • The consignment of electronics arrived at the warehouse this morning.
  • The store is expecting a large consignment of winter clothing next week.

Examples of usage

  • I received a parcel from my family overseas.
  • The parcel was securely wrapped in brown paper.
  • She signed for the parcel at the front desk.
Context #2 | Noun

land division

A portion of land divided for ownership or development purposes.

Synonyms

lot, plot, tract.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
parcel

Commonly used to describe a piece of land, especially in legal and real estate contexts. It can also refer to a package or a small item sent by mail.

  • She received a parcel from her friend overseas.
  • The parcel of land was described in the deed.
lot

Frequently used in real estate to refer to a piece of land or property. Also used more generally to refer to a group or collection of items or people.

  • They bought a vacant lot to build their new house.
  • He donated a lot of books to the library.
plot

Usually refers to a small piece of land intended for a specific use, such as gardening, building, or farming. It can also refer to a storyline in literature or movies.

  • They own a small plot of land where they grow vegetables.
  • The plot of the movie was very intriguing.
tract

Typically used to describe a large, often undivided area of land. It can also refer to a pamphlet or booklet, usually for religious or informational purposes.

  • The company purchased a large tract of land for their new plant.
  • He handed out tracts about environmental conservation.

Examples of usage

  • The real estate developer purchased a parcel of land for a new housing project.
  • The parcel was designated for commercial use.
Context #3 | Verb

divide

To divide into portions or parts.

Synonyms

allocate, divide, portion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
parcel

This entry repeats by mistake. Refer to the first instance for context and examples.
divide

Use this word for general situations where you split something into parts. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • The cake was divided among the children.
  • The class was divided on the issue of school uniforms.
portion

This word describes a part or share of something, often used in contexts related to food or to imply a fair share.

  • He ate a large portion of the meal.
  • Each member received an equal portion of the profits.
allocate

This word is used in business or administrative contexts to describe the distribution of resources, time, or responsibilities.

  • The manager will allocate tasks for the new project.
  • Funds were allocated for the development of new technology.

Examples of usage

  • The landowner decided to parcel the estate into smaller lots for sale.
  • She carefully parceled out the food to the hungry children.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • Before the establishment of postal services, people used to rely on messengers to deliver parcels, often over long distances.
  • The first organized postal system was set up in ancient Persia around 500 BC, where parcels were delivered on horseback.
  • In the 19th century, the advent of railroads and steamships revolutionized parcel delivery, making it faster and more reliable.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies, receiving a parcel often signals a turning point in the plot, revealing secrets or new adventures.
  • Television shows often depict mail carriers delivering parcels, highlighting their importance in connecting community members.
  • Songs and literature frequently use parcels as metaphors for communication and the anticipation of unexpected surprises.

Technology

  • Today, technology allows for real-time tracking of parcels through GPS, giving senders and receivers updates about their deliveries.
  • Online shopping has increased the volume of parcels shipped globally, leading to new logistics companies specializing in fast delivery.
  • Drones are being tested in various parts of the world for parcel delivery, offering the potential for quicker service in hard-to-reach areas.

Literature

  • Many classic literature pieces feature parcels as symbols of fate or serendipity, often containing crucial plot devices.
  • In children's stories, parcels often carry magical gifts or important messages that drive the adventure forward.
  • Famous novels like 'Harry Potter' often use parcels as waypoints for communication between characters in a whimsical context.

Origin of 'parcel'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has its roots in the Latin word 'parcella', meaning a small part or a piece.
  • In the Old French language, it transformed into 'parcelle', reflecting its meaning of a portion or a bundle.
  • It began being used in English during the 15th century, primarily related to land division and later expanded to items being sent.

The word 'parcel' originated from the Old French word 'parcelle' meaning 'a small part'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. Originally referring to a small part or portion of something, it later evolved to denote a package or a division of land. 'Parcel' is commonly used in the context of mail and delivery services, as well as in real estate and land development.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,430 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.