The word 'ultra-chic' is a modern compound adjective formed by combining the Latin intensifying prefix 'ultra-' with the French loanword 'chic'. The Latin 'ultra', meaning 'beyond' or 'on the far side of', has been used in English since the 19th century to denote an extreme degree, as seen in terms like 'ultramodern'. 'Chic' entered English from French in the mid-19th century, itself possibly derived from the German 'Schick' (skill, tact). The fusion of these elements follows a common pattern in fashion terminology, where a foreign, sophisticated-sounding core word ('chic') is amplified by a classical prefix ('ultra-') to create a superlative descriptor for cutting-edge style, literally translating to 'beyond stylish'.

Structure: ultra (beyond) + chic (stylish) - ultra: Latin origin, from 'ultra' meaning 'beyond'. Functions as an intensifying prefix. - chic: French origin, meaning 'elegant style'. Functions as the core adjective.