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
The extremely complex movement incorporates a special ruby duplex escapement and unites grande and petite sonnerie, alarm, and calendar functions. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 5 Nov. 2025 The pants come in both medium and light washes, sizes ranging from XS to XL, and the 28-inch inseam is suitable for petite shoppers. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025
Noun
In addition to private brands, Kohl’s turnaround strategy involves putting a strong focus on petites, fashion and fine jewelry, opening price points, impulse items, re-instituting coupons on certain brands, and Sephora. David Moin, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025 Thanks to the length, this is also an excellent choice for petites. Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 25 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for petite

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

French, feminine of petit

First Known Use

Adjective

1766, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petite was in 1766

Cite this Entry

“Petite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petite. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

petite

adjective
pe·​tite
pə-ˈtēt
: having a small trim figure

More from Merriam-Webster on petite

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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