petite

1 of 2

adjective

pe·​tite pə-ˈtēt How to pronounce petite (audio)
: having a small trim figure
usually used of a woman
petiteness noun

petite

2 of 2

noun

: a clothing size for short women

Examples of petite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Though petite in size, this pantry stalwart will make a big impression on any savory dish in need of a hit of lemony tang. Kendra Vaculin, Bon Appétit, 16 Dec. 2024 However, the shop does make a double chocolate cookie with sea salt and a chocolate hazelnut petite cookie (available only seasonally) for those craving some chocolate. Mary Jo Pitzl, The Arizona Republic, 13 Dec. 2024
Noun
Keep scrolling to discover more of my cozy, casual, and cute petite picks from Walmart to help complete your fall wardrobe. Kelsey Fredricks, People.com, 16 Oct. 2024 Pistola Lexi Distressed Ankle Wide Leg Jeans $168 Nordstrom These are a fantastic option for petites who don’t want to deal with hemming their jeans or leggier ladies seeking an ankle-length fit. Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Glamour, 27 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for petite 

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

French, feminine of petit

First Known Use

Adjective

1784, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petite was in 1784

Dictionary Entries Near petite

Cite this Entry

“Petite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petite. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

petite

adjective
pe·​tite
pə-ˈtēt
: having a small trim figure
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!