pack (someone or something) in
idiom
1
: to cause (someone or something) to fit into a small space
We were packed in the tiny room like sardines.
trying to pack one more thing in an already stuffed suitcase
2
: to cause (large groups of people) to come to a show or performance
His show still packs in (the) crowds.
The movie has been packing them in at theaters across the country.
3
: to put (a large amount of something) into (something)
She packs a lot of information in her short essays.
4
US, informal
: to stop using (something) forever
She isn't packing in her skis just yet.
I decided to pack in my paintbrushes and go to business school.
5
British, informal
: to give up doing (something)
He packed in his job and became a farmer.
They might pack in the project altogether.
Cite this Entry
“Pack (someone or something) in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pack%20%28someone%20or%20something%29%20in. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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