douche
UK[duːʃ]US[duːʃ]
n
a jet of liquid applied to a part of the body for cleansing or medicinal purposes, typically using a device.
n
a device for washing out the vagina or other body cavities.
n
(informal, chiefly north american) a contemptible or obnoxious person.
Etymology
the word 'douche' entered english in the 18th century, borrowed directly from the french word 'douche', meaning a shower or drench. the french term itself originates from the italian 'doccia', which denotes a water pipe or conduit. this italian word is derived from the vulgar latin 'ductia', a derivative of the latin verb 'ducere', meaning 'to lead' or 'to conduct'. the semantic evolution is logical: from the core idea of leading or conducting water, to a conduit or pipe, and finally to the specific application of a directed stream of liquid for washing. the modern informal, pejorative sense of an unpleasant person is a metaphorical extension, likening such an individual to something harsh or unpleasant.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from french. it cannot be meaningfully segmented into smaller, independent morphemes using its current english spelling.
Examples
the doctor recommended a saline douche for nasal irrigation.
she keeps a personal hygiene douche in her bathroom cabinet.
he was acting like a complete douche at the party last night.