cache
UK: kæʃ | US: kæʃ
n. a hidden storage space for valuables or supplies
n. (computing) a component that stores data for faster access
vt. to store something in a hidden or protected place
cache = cach<hide> + e<silent suffix>
- cach<hide>: Derived from French cacher ("to hide"), itself from Vulgar Latin coacticare ("to stow away"), related to Latin coactare ("to compel, confine").
- e: A silent suffix in English, often retained from French loanwords.
Etymology Origin:
The word cache entered English in the 18th century from French, originally referring to a hidden stash of goods (e.g., fur traders' supplies). Its computing sense emerged in the 1960s, metaphorically extending the idea of "hidden storage" to temporary data retention for efficiency. The morpheme cach preserves the core meaning of concealment, while the silent e reflects its French linguistic heritage.
The explorers found a cache of food buried near the riverbank.
Modern CPUs use a cache to speed up data processing.
She cached her jewelry in a secret compartment.
The browser cache stores website files for faster loading.
Archaeologists uncovered a cache of ancient coins.