stiletto

noun

sti·​let·​to stə-ˈle-(ˌ)tō 

plural stilettos or stilettoes

1

: a slender dagger with a blade thick in proportion to its breadth

2

: a pointed instrument for piercing holes for eyelets or embroidery

3

: stiletto heel

also : a shoe with a stiletto heel

Examples of stiletto in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The original version of stiletto nails—long and dagger-like—might have been tricky to wear, but these red carpet midi iterations prove the trend is suitable for everyone, even for those whose ultimate goal is channeling an aura of comfort and ease—with a hint of Y2K drama, of course. —Ana Morales, Vogue, 18 Nov. 2025

The Hot Chick is a signature stiletto for the luxury footwear brand that features a pronounced arch, deep décolleté, a sharp pointed toe, and a steep 100mm heel. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 18 Nov. 2025

Want a pair of stiletto boots as versatile as Swift's? —Tatiana Ojea, Glamour, 15 Nov. 2025

For many young women, the stiletto’s discomfort is part of the appeal, offering proof that effort and glamor remain in an age of casual sneakers. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 9 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, diminutive of stilo stylus, dagger, from Latin stilus stylus — more at style

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing stiletto

• stiletto heel

Rhymes for stiletto

• hereto
• libretto
• magneto
• palmetto
• whereto
• allegretto
• lazaretto
• ghetto
• seto

Kids Definition

stiletto

noun

sti·​let·​to stə-ˈlet-ō 

plural stilettos or stilettoes

: a slender dagger