'compact' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'compactus', where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'pactus' meant 'fastened'.

'compactus' transformed into the Old French word 'compacter', and eventually became the modern English word 'compact'.

Initially, it meant 'to make an agreement or fasten together', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pressed together or made more dense'.