What does petite mean?
Petite is an adjective meaning small in stature or physical size, especially in a way that suggests compactness or attractive proportions. Its everyday use most often refers to women and girls, as in a description of a petite woman or a petite frame. In clothing, the word can identify a shorter or more compact size, while it may also describe small objects or designs. The term generally conveys a more specific impression than simply saying someone is small: it often suggests delicacy, neatness, or a compact build. Because it can focus on a person’s body, it may sound complimentary in some settings and patronizing in others. Petite is especially familiar in North American English and is also used in British English. Its history is French: the English word is borrowed from the feminine form of the French adjective petit.
adjectiveSmall in stature or physical size, especially in a way regarded as compact or attractively proportioned. It is most often used of women or girls, but can also describe something small and compact.
- Small in stature or physical size, especially when describing a woman or girl.
"She has a petite frame and appears comfortable in the sleeveless dress."
"Her petite frame made the long walk seem easier than it was."
"The tailor recommended a petite cut for the formal jacket."
Petite is the feminine French form of petit, but in English it became a distinctive adjective for someone small in stature—and sometimes for a compact size or design.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How petite is actually used
Petite is most commonly used for women and girls and is also used in clothing and retail contexts to describe a short or compact size. Depending on context, it can be complimentary, descriptive, or mildly patronizing.
Easily confused with petite
In French, petit is the masculine form and petite is the feminine form; in English, petite is an adjective meaning small or compact.