The phrase "packed off" means to send someone or something away. The spelling of "packed" is /pækt/, with the vowel sound /æ/ as in "cat" and the final consonant cluster /kt/. The spelling of "off" is /ɒf/, with the vowel sound /ɒ/ as in "got" and the final consonant sound /f/. When pronounced together, the stress is on "packed" and the two words have a slight pause in between. "Packed off" is a common idiom in British English.
"Packed off" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of hastily sending someone or something away, typically with the implication that such action is urgent or necessary. It conveys the notion of swiftly arranging for someone's departure, often in a rather forceful or abrupt manner. The term is commonly used to describe the action of sending someone away, usually to a different location, either temporarily or permanently.
When someone is "packed off," it suggests that they are sent away with their belongings in a hurried and sometimes unceremonious fashion. It may indicate a situation where the departure is unexpected or premature, possibly due to some unforeseen circumstance, obligation, or emergency. This idiom can be used in various contexts, ranging from personal relationships to work-related situations.
For example, a mother might pack off her child to summer camp, or a boss could pack off an employee to attend an important conference. Alternatively, the phrase can also describe getting rid of unnecessary objects or items, often by placing them inside a bag or container abruptly.
Overall, "packed off" denotes the act of sending someone or something away promptly or without delay, usually signifying the importance or urgency of such action.
The phrase "packed off" originated in the late 18th century and is derived from the verb "pack", meaning to arrange and organize items into a package or container. The word "off" serves as an adverbial particle intensifying the action of packing, indicating that someone is sent away quickly or hurriedly. The phrase "packed off" is often used to describe sending someone away, often without much preparation or hesitation.