What does package mean?
A package is a bundle or container prepared to hold, transport, sell, or deliver items. The word can refer to a physical parcel, a group of products offered together, or a collection of computer programs and related files distributed as one unit. It is also used as a verb: to package goods means to wrap, label, or prepare them for shipment or sale, often with care or an attractive presentation. In everyday speech, a package sent by post is usually a parcel, while a package of software or a package deal may have no physical container at all. Package suggests completeness and deliberate preparation rather than simply a loose collection. It is therefore useful whenever an object, set of goods, services, or digital products are being presented or delivered as a coordinated unit.
A bundle or container of items prepared for handling, transport, sale, or use; also a set of related products, services, or computer programs offered as a unit.
"She bought a package of flour and eggs at the supermarket."
The word is widely used for physical parcels, commercial bundles, and software or data distributed together.
To place items in a container or wrap them for transport, sale, or use.
"The factory packages each bottle with a protective sleeve."
Often implies systematic preparation and presentation for distribution rather than simply putting something away.
The plural is packages, with a silent final e and a voiced /dʒ/ sound.
"The packages arrived at the warehouse on Monday."
From a bundle carried on the back to the software you install, a package has always meant something prepared for transport or use.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does package come from?
The noun entered English in the early 16th century from French package, a diminutive of pacque, meaning a bundle or parcel. That French word ultimately derives from a Germanic word associated with a bundle or pack. English later developed the verb package from the noun, originally meaning to put goods into a bundle or container. The modern senses connected with merchandise, travel arrangements, and computer software are later extensions of the original idea of a prepared bundle.
Related word forms
How package is actually used
The noun is very common in business, retail, shipping, and computing contexts. In the UK, package is often used for a parcel or item sent through the post, while parcel is also common; in the US, package is the usual general term. As a verb, package often implies professional preparation for transport, sale, or distribution.
Easily confused with package
A packet is usually a small, flat, or lightweight parcel, while a package can be any wrapped or containerized bundle, including a large shipment.