packet

noun

(networking) A small fragment of data as transmitted on some types of network, notably Ethernet networks (Wikipedia).

(networking) A protocol data unit of the Internet Protocol.

(networking) A message sent over a transport layer protocol.

A small pack or package; a little bundle or parcel

(nautical) Originally, a vessel employed by government to convey dispatches or mails; hence, a vessel employed in conveying dispatches, mails, passengers, and goods, and having fixed days of sailing; a mail boat. Packet boat, ship, vessel (Wikipedia).

(botany) A specimen envelope containing small, dried plants or containing parts of plants when attached to a larger sheet.

(South Africa) A plastic bag.

(informal) A large amount of money.

(slang) Synonym of package (“male genitalia”).

verb

(transitive) To make up into a packet or bundle.

(transitive) To send in a packet or dispatch vessel.

(transitive, Internet) To subject to a denial-of-service attack in which a large number of data packets are sent.

(intransitive) To ply with a packet or dispatch boat.

Roots

pakpack- · Middle Dutch · bundle -et-et · Old French · diminutive

Synonyms for packet

packagen parceln bundlen packn bindlen

Synonyms & related words for packet

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of packet — including package, parcel, bundle, pack, bindle. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to packet

Explore words related to packet — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include sachet, glassine, envelope, wrapper, carton, baggie, prepackage, bag. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for packet

Common synonyms for packet include package, parcel, bundle, pack, bindle — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does packet come from?

The word packet breaks down into 2 roots of Middle Dutch and Old French origin: pack, from Middle Dutch pak (“bundle”); and -et, from Old French -et (“diminutive”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.