What does parcelled mean?
Parcelled means divided, packaged, or distributed in separate parcels. The word is most common as the past tense or past participle of the verb parcel: a shipment may be parcelled according to its destination, or an organization may parcell payments into smaller amounts. It can also serve as an adjective, as in “parcelled goods” or “parcelled deliveries.” In these uses, it emphasizes the separation of a larger quantity into manageable or separately handled portions. The term is especially associated with British spelling, which retains the second “l,” although the form is also understood in American English, where parceled is more usual. Parcelled is more precise and formal than simply describing something as “sent,” particularly when several distinct packages or units are involved. It is also useful when discussing the division of a resource or body of material into portions intended for different recipients or purposes.
Divided, packaged, or distributed in separate parcels.
"The warehouse received several parcelled shipments from the supplier."
Common before nouns such as shipments, goods, payments, and deliveries.
To divide, package, or distribute something into separate parcels.
"The volunteers parcelled the supplies into boxes for each shelter."
Usually encountered as the past tense or past participle of parcel.
One extra “l” marks the traditional British spelling: British English uses parcelled, while American English normally uses parceled.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parcelled come from?
The form developed from the English verb parcel, which was borrowed from French parceller, meaning to divide into small portions. The English noun parcel ultimately comes through French from Latin particella, a diminutive of pars meaning “part.” The British spelling with two “l” characters reflects the form used in British English, while American English usually spells the word parceled.
Related word forms
How parcelled is actually used
Parcelled is the standard British spelling; American English generally spells it parceled. It is most often used as the past tense or past participle of parcel, but it can also function as an adjective before a noun.
Easily confused with parcelled
Parcel is the base verb and noun, while parcelled is its past tense, past participle, or participial adjective.