petite

1 of 3

adjective

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

petite

2 of 3

noun (1)

: a clothing size for short women

petiteness

3 of 3

noun (2)

pe·​tite·​ness
plural -es
: the quality or state of being petite

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
After all, being petite refers to your height more than your weight. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026 The kitchen is a petite affair, but sufficient for the chef to work his magic on the grill. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2026
Noun
The length may work great for those taller than 5 feet, 4 inches, but petites are still in luck. — Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 May 2026 This versatile top features a high neckline and a flattering cropped length that is perfect for petites. — Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026 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 (1)

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of petite was in 1766

Phrases Containing petite

Rhymes for petite

See All Rhymes for petite

Browse Nearby Words

Petitcodiac
petite
petite bourgeoisie
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Petite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/petite. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

petite

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

More from Merriam-Webster on petite

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for petite

Nglish: Translation of petite for Spanish Speakers

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