pack in
In each usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "pack" and "in."
1. To pack something into a container or enclosed space of some kind so that it may be stored or carried for future use. I packed in an extra chocolate bar as a treat for your lunch today. I'm packing my maternity clothes in a box in the attic we decide to have another baby sometime in the future. I'm sorry, I already packed the toothpaste in the suitcase for our trip. Isn't there another tube somewhere?
2. To manage to fit a lot of people or things into some enclosed space. Wow, they really pack the garlic in this dish, huh? Managers of the club have been accused of packing in people beyond its safety limits.
3. To manage to schedule a lot of activities into a limited amount of time. You sure packed in a lot in just a week! I've stopped trying to pack so much in every time I travel because I end up not enjoying the location itself.
4. To surround something snugly within some substance or material. We'll have to pack the finger in ice if we want to have any chance of reattaching it. They packed the stereo equipment in foam to ensure it wasn't damaged during delivery.
5. To quit or give up something. I'm so glad you packed in the smoking—I wouldn't have been able to bear it if you had fallen ill from it. Tom packed his job in and moved to the countryside to work on his father's farm.
pack them in
To bring or draw in a large number of people as an audience. Let's move to a bigger venue. That way, we'll really be able to pack them in! We need a big act to pack them in.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.