Petite
/pəˈtiːt/
Definitions
2 meaningsDescribing a woman or a person with a small and attractively slender build.
/pəˈtiːt/
Having a small and slender build; especially of a woman.
The actress was known for her petite frame and elegant style.
💡 Simply: Imagine a friend who's shorter than average but super stylish! "Petite" is the perfect word to describe her because she's small and often has a very graceful and fashionable style. Like, "Sarah is petite and always looks so chic in her clothes."
👶 For kids: When someone is 'petite,' it means they are small and a little bit skinny.
More Examples
She ordered a petite size dress that fit her perfectly.
The ballerina's petite figure was perfect for the role.
How It's Used
"The designer created a line of clothing specifically for petite women."
"She was a petite woman with a graceful demeanor."
Small or dainty, especially related to food portions.
/pəˈtiːt/
(of food) Small or dainty.
The restaurant served a petite salad as an appetizer.
💡 Simply: Imagine a tiny, delicious dessert. "Petite" can also describe something small and refined, like a miniature portion of food. It’s like saying, “I had a petite scoop of ice cream, just enough to satisfy my sweet tooth!”
👶 For kids: When food is 'petite,' it means it's a small amount, like a tiny cookie.
More Examples
She opted for a petite slice of cake.
They enjoyed a petite selection of cheeses.
How It's Used
"The restaurant offered a petite portion of the appetizer."
From French, meaning 'small' or 'little'. It entered English in the late 18th century, initially used to describe a slender or small woman.
The word 'petite' has been used in English since the late 18th century. Its usage to describe a woman's stature became increasingly common in the 20th century.
Memory tip
Think of a small, elegant perfume bottle.
Word Origin
"small, little"