Cachet: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the French word for 'seal', highlighting the idea of something being officially recognized.
• In the late 17th century, it was used to describe a printed seal that showed authenticity or approval.
• The term reflects the importance of brand identity and social status, connecting to historical aristocracy.

Cultural Significance

• Certain brands are known for their cachet, often resulting in higher prices because they are perceived as elite.
• In the art world, a piece with cachet can be significantly more valuable simply due to its provenance or the artist's reputation.
• In popular culture, cachet can affect celebrity endorsements; people may choose products based on who promotes them.

Psychology

• The concept is closely linked to social status; items with cachet can alter perceptions of self-worth among consumers.
• Research shows that people often derive feelings of esteem from owning products with cachet, influencing their purchasing decisions.
• Social comparison theory suggests individuals evaluate their own significance by comparing themselves to others, and cachet plays a key role in this process.

Business and Marketing

• In marketing, establishing cachet around a product can lead to increased consumer desire and loyalty.
• Luxury brands often leverage cachet to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace, creating exclusivity.
• Companies may engage in strategic partnerships to enhance their cachet by associating themselves with more prestigious brands.

Literature

• Authors sometimes imbue characters with cachet to elevate their status within a story or among peers.
• In literary criticism, a novel's cachet can influence its reception, often based on the author's prior works or fluctuating trends.
• Cachet in literature may come from themes of wealth and privilege, impacting character relationships and plot dynamics.

At rank #28,912, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28909 rudiment
• 28910 duelling
• 28911 frothing
• 28912 cachet
• 28913 endear
• 28914 unmercifully
• 28915 pylon
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