"pack shit" is a strong or offensive slang term meaning to be scared or frightened. Teens often use words like this for shock value or to bond with peers, without fully appreciating who could be hurt by them. The concern is less the word itself and more whether it is aimed at a particular person or group. A short, matter-of-fact conversation about who hears these words and how they land is usually more effective than banning the word outright.
pack shit
(slang, vulgar, idiomatic, Australia) To be scared or frightened.
Etymology timeline
Born ~1990 · no dated citations yetDefinitions
(slang, vulgar, idiomatic, Australia) To be scared or frightened.
"pack shit" is a strong or offensive slang term meaning to be scared or frightened. Teens often use words like this for shock value or to bond with peers, without fully appreciating who could be hurt by them. The concern is less the word itself and more whether it is aimed at a particular person or group. A short, matter-of-fact conversation about who hears these words and how they land is usually more effective than banning the word outright.
"pack shit" is highly informal and vulgar English meaning to be scared or frightened. It is mainly heard in Australian or New Zealand English. A more formal or neutral equivalent would be something like "to be scared or frightened" expressed in standard vocabulary. A common mistake for non-native speakers is to use "pack shit" thinking it is neutral; in fact it is rude and can offend, so avoid it in writing or in any professional setting. If you are a B2 or C1 learner, it is useful to recognise this word when you hear or read it, but think carefully about whether the situation really calls for it before using it yourself.
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(slang, vulgar, idiomatic, New Zealand) To talk nonsense.
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Why is this section here?
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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🇦🇺About Australian & NZ slang slang
Aussie and Kiwi vocabulary — bogan, daggy, brekkie, sheila, bach, jandals — the whole Antipodean lexicon, including outback dialect, surf and beach culture, and Sydney/Melbourne street slang.
See all Australian & NZ slang slang on Slangora.
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(British, slang, vulgar) To scare someone, or give them a fright.
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(Australia, vulgar, informal) To win or achieve something easily.
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(slang, vulgar) due to anger or excitement.
- chat shit72%
(slang, vulgar, UK, Irish, Commonwealth) To talk nonsense or to lie.