DictionaryparcelDivide into portions
verb

parcel

To divide something into portions for distribution.

The coordinator parcels out supplies to families after the storm.

Etymology

The French noun means a small part or portion. The verb parcel describes making such portions, especially to distribute them among different recipients.

More examples

  • We parceled out the remaining cake among the children.
  • She parcels the work out so everyone has a task.
  • The committee is parceling out grant money to local schools.

Forms

parcel · parcels · parceled · parceling

Similar words

divide
Means separate into parts, without necessarily distributing those parts.
distribute
Emphasizes giving things out rather than dividing them into portions.
allot
Emphasizes assigning a specific share to each recipient.