sachet

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

All four words describe small containers, but they differ in typical contents, material, and region. 'Sachet' is the most specific term in British English, referring to a small sealed container for a single portion of a liquid or powder (e.g., sugar, shampoo, ketchup). 'Packet' is broader and more common in American English; it can describe any small paper or plastic container (e.g., a packet of crisps, a packet of seeds) and may be larger or resealable. 'Pouch' usually implies a bag-like shape with a flexible closure, often used for items that need to be kept fresh or sealed (e.g., a pouch of baby food, a tobacco pouch). 'Envelope' is flat and rectangular, typically containing dry powders or documents. A ketchup container at a fast-food restaurant is a 'sachet' in British English but a 'packet' in American English.

Common collocations

Etymology

Borrowed from French 'sachet', meaning a small bag. It is the diminutive form of 'sac' (bag), which came into French from Latin 'saccus' (a bag or sack). The Latin word itself was borrowed from Greek 'sakkos', which referred to a bag or sack made from coarse cloth or animal hair. The English word has kept its French spelling and the basic idea of a small container, but modern usage has split into two distinct meanings.