Pack

Definition

Pack can function as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to a collection of items bundled together, a group of animals, or a container for carrying items. As a verb, it means to arrange or bundle items for transport or storage.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pæk/
• Respelling: PAK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pæk/
• Respelling: PAK

Etymology

The word "pack" originates from Middle English "pak," derived from Old English "pæc," meaning "bundle" or "parcel." It is related to Middle Dutch "pak" and German "Pack," carrying the same meaning. Its verb form was first used in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Packer (noun)
• Package (noun)
• Backpack (noun, verb)
• Packing (noun)
• Unpack (verb)

Synonyms

• Bundle
• Group
• Load

Antonyms

• Unpack
• Scatter
• Separate

Usage

The word "pack" is used in a variety of contexts, including transportation, storage, and groupings of animals or items. For example, "She carried a pack of supplies" or "He packed his suitcase for the trip."

Related Terms

• Parcel: A wrapped bundle of items for delivery or transport.
• Load: The amount of something carried or moved.
• Cluster: A group of similar items grouped together.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A collection of items bundled together: Refers to things wrapped or tied together for transport or sale.
  • Example: "He bought a pack of cards."
• A group of animals: Refers to animals, especially canines, that live and hunt together.
  • Example: "A pack of wolves roamed the forest."
• A container for carrying items: Refers to a backpack or similar item used for storage and transport.
  • Example: "She carried her belongings in a pack."

Verb

• To arrange or bundle items for transport or storage: Refers to placing things in a container or wrapping them for convenience.
  • Example: "He packed his clothes into the suitcase."
• To crowd or compress tightly: Refers to filling a space densely with items or people.
  • Example: "Fans packed the stadium for the concert."
• To carry a load, especially on the back: Often used in reference to animals or humans transporting items.
  • Example: "The mule packed supplies up the mountain."