Compact means small and neatly packed together, using space efficiently. As a noun, it can mean a small case or a formal agreement; as a verb, it means to press things tightly together.
From Latin *compactus* “closely joined,” past participle of *compingere* “to fasten together,” from *com-* “together” + *pangere* “to fix, fasten.” The idea is of parts tightly pressed into a small space.
The word “compact” is about density—getting a lot into a little space, whether it’s atoms in metal or ideas in a short paragraph. That’s why a compact car and a compact argument both feel efficient, just in different ways.
As a noun, 'compact' in cosmetics (powder compact) has been associated with femininity and beauty standards that place disproportionate pressure on women. More broadly, 'compact' as an agreement is gender-neutral.
Use 'compact' neutrally for agreements or smallness; when referring to cosmetic compacts, avoid reinforcing narrow beauty norms or assuming only women use them.
["agreement","pact","small","concise"]
Women have challenged restrictive beauty norms tied to cosmetic products, including compacts, while also innovating in the design and marketing of such items.
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