sachet

American  

[sa-shey, sash-ey] / sæˈʃeɪ, ˈsæʃ eɪ /

noun

1. a small bag, case, or pad containing perfuming powder or the like, placed among handkerchiefs, lingerie, etc., to impart a pleasant scent.

2. Also sachet powder. the powder contained in such a case.

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sachet British  

/ ˈsæʃeɪ /

noun

1. a small sealed envelope, usually made of plastic or paper, for containing sugar, salt, shampoo, etc

2. 1. a small soft bag containing perfumed powder, placed in drawers to scent clothing

   2. the powder contained in such a bag

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Etymology

Origin of sachet

1475–85; < Middle French, equivalent to sach- (combining form of sac sack ¹ ) + -et -et

Explanation

A sachet is a small cloth bag containing something that smells good. You might use a sachet to keep the tube socks and undies in your drawer smelling nice. In Britain, people tend to use the word sachet for any small bag or packet, like a sachet of sugar or a sachet of cat food. In North America, a sachet is a more specific kind of small bag, one that's filled with something scented, like lavender or balsam. In either case, sachet is pronounced like the French word it comes from — the second syllable sounds like shay.

Example Sentences

Sachet Sethi, a senior manager at recruitment firm Robert Walters, said even those in management roles are finding it difficult to cope with costs.

From Reuters • May 8, 2023

“There is no reason why cancer vaccines would not work if given at the earliest stage,” said Sachet A. Shukla, who directs a cancer vaccine program at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

From New York Times • Oct. 10, 2022

Ahmed Sachet al-Ghizzi, 21, said he was on a bridge near the hospital late Monday night when he saw smoke and flames.

From New York Times • Jul. 13, 2021

Citing commitments to the journal publishing the research, Sachet said scientists at the conference wouldn’t do interviews.

From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2015

"Sachet powder, I guess, or some kind of perfume."

From Old Rose and Silver by Reed, Myrtle