packet

noun

pack·​et ˈpa-kət 

1

a

: a small bundle or parcel

b

: a small thin package

c British

(1)

: pay envelope

(2)

: salary, paycheck

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

• bag
• bundle
• package
• pack
• pouch

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

The new job comes with a starting salary of $305,324, a monthly car allowance, an annual cost-of-living adjustment and other benefits, according to the compensation package included in Tuesday’s City Commission meeting agenda packet. — Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026

At some locations, the company uses precise data packet arrival times, while other locations use wave machines or pendulums. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 25 Aug. 2026

Medications expire, blister packets get used and never replaced, and adhesive bandages lose their stickiness over time. — Annita Katee, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2026

After using a vinegar and water solution as part of your refrigerator cleaning routine, reach for a bowl, tray, or packet of baking soda to keep the space smelling fresh. — The Spruce, 21 Aug. 2026

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

Phrases Containing packet

• pay packet
• press packet
• wave packet

Rhymes for packet

• bracket
• jacket
• racket
• racquet
• straitjacket

Kids Definition

packet

noun

pack·​et ˈpak-ət 

1

: a passenger boat carrying mail and cargo on a regular schedule

2

: a small bundle or parcel