English Reference
noun

packing

n.
US /ˈpækɪŋ/ UK /pˈækɪŋ/ pack·ing UK spelling packings

  1. 01 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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. 02 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The manufacturer switched to biodegradable packing peanuts to reduce the environmental impact of their shipping operations.

    paddingcushioningwadding
  3. 03 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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'.


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

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

This entry
Origin Middle English pakkynge
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated