What does "packet" mean?

Packet: Originally, a vessel employed by government to convey dispatches or mails; hence, a vessel employed in conveying dispatches, mails, passengers, and goods, and having fixed days of sailing; a mail boat. Packet boat, ship, or vessel. See Packet, n., 2. -- Packet day, the day for mailing letters to go by packet; or the sailing day. -- Packet note or post. See under Paper.

Additional senses

  1. 2.To make up into a packet or bundle.
  2. 3.To send in a packet or dispatch vessel. Her husband Was packeted to France. Ford.
  3. 4.To ply with a packet or dispatch boat.

Sources