English Reference
noun · verb

package

n. · v.
US /ˈpækədʒ/ UK /pˈækɪdʒ/ pack·age UK spelling packages

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.an object or group of objects wrapped in paper or packed in a box.

    n.a physical object or collection of items packed together and wrapped for transport or delivery.

    Simple

    The courier delivered a large package to my office this morning.

    In context

    The fragile contents were secured within the package using several layers of protective foam to prevent damage during international transit.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.a group of things that are sold or offered together as one unit.

    n.a collection of related items, services, or proposals offered as a single integrated unit.

    Simple

    The bank offers a special package for students that includes a free credit card.

    In context

    The compensation package includes a competitive base salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous annual performance bonus.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    n.a set of computer programs designed to work together.

    n.a collection of software files or programs bundled together for installation or specific functionality.

    Simple

    You need to install the latest security package to protect your computer.

    In context

    The developer updated the graphics package to ensure compatibility with the new operating system's architecture.

    software suitemodule
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical television

    n.a complete news story that is ready to be shown on TV.

    n.a self-contained television news report that includes video, sound bites, and a voiceover.

    Simple

    The reporter is finishing her package for the six o'clock news.

    In context

    The editor spent three hours polishing the investigative package before it was cleared for the evening broadcast.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency InformalVulgarHumorous

    n.a word used to talk about a man's private parts through his clothes.

    n.a euphemistic and often vulgar reference to the male genitalia, typically as visible through clothing.

    Simple

    He wore such tight jeans that you could see his package.

    In context

    The tabloid's focus on the athlete's package in the beach photos was widely criticised as being in poor taste.

  6. 06 B1 Intermediate

    v.to put something into a box or wrap it so it can be sold or sent.

    v.to enclose an item in a container or wrapping for sale, distribution, or protection.

    Simple

    The company decided to package the juice in glass bottles instead of plastic.

    In context

    The marketing team spent months designing a new way to package the luxury skincare line to appeal to younger consumers.

    unwrapunpack

Usage statistical package


Equivalent to pack + -age. Possibly influenced by Anglo-Latin paccagium or Old French pacquage.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated