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
Ahead, find eight petite yoga pants from Amazon, starting at $25. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 5 Sep. 2025 Both worked with Genta himself and were involved in the creation of the brand’s complicated watches under Golay, including its first grande and petite sonneries, Holy Grails of fine watchmaking. Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
The Leora is a cropped shape with just a hint of an on-trend, curved leg, ideal for petites, as well. Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 5 Sep. 2025 Tarse Linen-blend Palazzo Capri Pants These linen-blend palazzo pants may not be tailored for petites, but the capri length is perfect for travelers under 5-foot-4. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 23 Aug. 2025 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

Cite this Entry

“Petite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petite. Accessed 10 Sep. 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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