boutique

UK: buːˈtiːk | US: buːˈtiːk

Definition
  1. n. a small retail store selling fashionable or specialized goods

  2. n. a business or service catering to a specialized or luxurious clientele

Structure
bout <small shop (from Old French "boutique")>-ique <noun suffix (French origin)>
Etymology

The word "boutique" originates from the Old French term boutique, meaning "small shop," which itself derives from the Latin apotheca (storehouse). Over time, the meaning narrowed to emphasize stylish or specialized retail spaces, reflecting its modern association with fashion and exclusivity. The suffix -ique is a French marker for nouns, preserving the word's Gallic charm in English.

Examples
  1. She owns a boutique selling handmade jewelry in the city center.

  2. The new boutique hotel offers personalized services for its guests.

  3. They prefer shopping at boutiques rather than large department stores.

  4. The boutique specializes in vintage clothing from the 1960s.

  5. His boutique winery produces limited-edition bottles each year.