ENGLISH
REFERENCE

packing

n.
US //ˈpækɪŋ// UK //pˈækɪŋ// pack·ing
  1. 1 preparing for a trip (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act of putting your clothes and things into bags or suitcases for a trip.

    the process of placing personal belongings or items into luggage or containers for travel or storage.

    Example

    I finished my packing early so I could relax before the flight.

    Example

    Efficient packing is essential for long-term travel, as it requires balancing the necessity of items against the physical constraints of a single carry-on bag.
  2. 2 protective materials (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    materials like paper or plastic used to protect things inside a box.

    protective materials, such as bubble wrap or foam, used to prevent damage to goods during transit.

    Example

    The glass vase arrived safely because there was plenty of packing in the box.

    Example

    The manufacturer switched to biodegradable packing peanuts to reduce the environmental impact of their shipping operations.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 spatial arrangement (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Math

    the way objects are fitted together into a space.

    the arrangement or density of objects within a defined space or container.

    Example

    The scientist studied the packing of atoms in different types of crystals.

    Example

    In discrete geometry, the sphere packing problem investigates the most efficient way to arrange non-overlapping spheres within a given volume.

    Usage

    Often used in the context of 'sphere packing' or 'atomic packing'.
Origin

From Middle English pakkynge; equivalent to pack (“verb and noun senses”) + -ing.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference