sachet
UK[ˈsæʃ.eɪ]US[sæˈʃeɪ]
n
a small sealed bag or packet containing a small quantity of something, typically a powdered or granular substance.
n
a small perfumed bag used to scent clothes or linen.
Etymology
the word 'sachet' entered english in the 15th century, borrowed directly from the french word 'sachet', which is a diminutive form of 'sac', meaning 'bag' or 'sack'. the french 'sac' itself derives from the latin 'saccus', meaning 'bag', a term borrowed from the greek 'sakkos', meaning 'bag made of coarse cloth or hair'. this greek term is believed to be of semitic origin, likely from the hebrew 'śaq' or the phoenician 'śq', referring to a sack or baggy garment. thus, the modern english 'sachet' retains its core meaning of a small bag, specifically one used for holding perfumed materials or small portions of product.
Analysis
the entire word 'sachet' functions as a simplex unit in english. it is a loanword from french.
Examples
she placed a lavender sachet in her drawer to keep her clothes smelling fresh.
the recipe calls for one sachet of yeast.
the hotel provided complimentary shampoo and conditioner in small plastic sachets.