bouquet

UK: buːˈkeɪ | US: buˈkeɪ

Definition

  1. n. a bunch of flowers arranged in an artistic way

  2. n. the characteristic scent of a wine or perfume

Structure
bouqu <cluster of trees/flowers (Old French)>et <diminutive suffix (Old French)>
Etymology

The word "bouquet" originates from Old French bosquet (diminutive of bosc, meaning "grove" or "cluster of trees"), reflecting its early association with natural clusters. By the 18th century, it shifted to specifically denote a decorative bunch of flowers. The secondary meaning—referring to the aroma of wine—emerged metaphorically in the 19th century, likening the complexity of scents to a floral arrangement.

Examples

  1. She received a beautiful bouquet of roses on her birthday.

  2. The bouquet of this wine hints at blackberries and vanilla.

  3. He arranged the wildflowers into a small bouquet.

  4. The perfume’s bouquet was both fresh and floral.

  5. The bride carried a bouquet of lilies and peonies.