sash
UK[sæʃ]US[sæʃ]
n
a long strip of cloth worn around the waist or over one shoulder, often as part of a uniform or ceremonial dress.
n
a frame holding the glass in a window, typically one of two sliding frames in a sash window.
Etymology
the word 'sash' traces a fascinating journey from the middle east to europe. it originates from the arabic 'shāsh', referring specifically to fine muslin cloth used for turbans. entering english via french and possibly turkish influences in the late 1500s, the term initially denoted an oriental scarf or turban. through european military and ceremonial adoption, the meaning narrowed to the specific long, decorative band of cloth we recognize today, worn as a mark of rank or part of formal attire. the separate meaning relating to a window frame emerged in the late 17th century, possibly as an alteration of the french 'châssis', meaning 'frame'.
Analysis
the word 'sash' is a simplex loanword. it entered english in the late 16th century from the arabic 'shāsh', meaning 'muslin' or 'turban'. the english form was likely influenced by the french 'châle' (shawl). its functional role is as a complete noun root.
Examples
the ambassador wore a ceremonial robe with a bright red silk sash across his chest.
she tied the sash of her bathrobe tightly after her shower.
i had to paint the wooden sash of the old window before the winter.