cigarette

UK: ˌsɪɡ.əˈret | US: ˈsɪɡ.ə.ret

Definition
  1. n. a thin cylinder of finely cut tobacco rolled in paper for smoking.

Structure
cigar <rolled tobacco>ette <diminutive suffix>
Etymology

The word "cigarette" originates from the French word "cigarette," a diminutive of "cigare" (cigar). The suffix "-ette" (from Old French "-ete") denotes smallness, reflecting the cigarette's smaller size compared to a traditional cigar. The root "cigar" comes from the Spanish "cigarro," possibly derived from the Mayan word "sik'ar" (to smoke rolled tobacco leaves). This highlights the cultural transmission of tobacco use from indigenous American practices to European adaptation, with linguistic evolution emphasizing portability and convenience.

Examples
  1. She lit a cigarette and took a slow drag.

  2. The smell of cigarette smoke lingered in the air.

  3. He decided to quit smoking cigarettes for health reasons.

  4. The ashtray was filled with cigarette butts.

  5. In some countries, cigarette packaging carries graphic health warnings.