Definition of "shrink-wrap" []

• A protective wrapping for articles of merchandise consisting of a clear plastic film that is wound about the articles and then shrunk by heat to form a sealed, tight-fitting package. Also called shrink package. (noun)
• To wrap (an article of merchandise) in protective clear plastic film. (verb-transitive)
• Of or relating to shrink-wrap. (adjective)
• Of or relating to a legal agreement, such as a software license, to which one indicates acceptance by opening the shrink-wrap that encloses a product subject to the agreement. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Small firms typically buy basic clerical and accounting software in shrink-wrap boxes and run them on a company computer."
• "Sealed Air's products include Bubble Wrap package cushioning and Cryovac fresh-food shrink-wrap."
• "Merck has responded by switching from shrink-wrap to plastic or cardboard trays for incoming vials for a majority of its products, Mr. Robinson said."