packet

noun

pack·​et ˈpa-kət How to pronounce packet (audio)
Synonyms of packetnext
1
a
: a small bundle or parcel
b
: a small thin package
c British
d
chiefly British : a considerable amount
that trip will cost a packet
2
a
: a number of letters dispatched at one time
b
: a small group, cluster, or mass
3
: a passenger boat usually carrying mail and cargo
4
British : a pack of cigarettes
5
: a short fixed-length section of data that is transmitted as a unit in an electronic communications network

Synonyms of packet

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Examples of packet in a Sentence

I got two packets of broccoli seeds to plant this summer. He puts two packets of sugar in his coffee. Could you get me another packet of ketchup? Your information packet includes a map and a schedule of all the events at the conference. I received the packet of legal papers today.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Election officials are asking voters to visit nearby drop boxes outside of evacuation zones to drop off ballot packets. — Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026 Finally, Kenzo thrust his hand into the paper bag and pulled out a packet of drops. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026 This goes for yeast packets stashed in the back of the pantry, too. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026 The secret weapon, of all things, is a packet of ranch seasoning. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for packet

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pekette, pakat, from Anglo-French pacquet, of Germanic origin; akin to Middle Dutch pak pack

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of packet was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing packet

Rhymes for packet

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Browse Nearby Words

packery
packet
packet boat
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Cite this Entry

“Packet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/packet. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

packet

noun
pack·​et ˈpak-ət How to pronounce packet (audio)
1
: a passenger boat carrying mail and cargo on a regular schedule
2
: a small bundle or parcel

More from Merriam-Webster on packet

Nglish: Translation of packet for Spanish Speakers

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