DictionaryRoot: -et
French
-et
small; sometimes affectionate
Forms
- -et
- -ette — The corresponding feminine form.
Origin
French continued an older Romance ending for smallness.
Note
The original sense of smallness can fade in established words.
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noun
cabinet
KAB-ih-nuht/ˈkæbɪnət/
A cupboard or case for storing or enclosing things.
Etymology
The French formation denotes a little cabin or small room, though Italian influence or origin is also possible. The sense shifted from a room or case for valuables to furniture for safekeeping.