stylet Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun small needlelike appendage; especially the feeding organ of a tardigrade

WordNet

Sty"let noun
Etymology
F., dim. of style; cf. It. stiletto. See Stiletto.
Definitions
  1. A small poniard; a stiletto.
  2. (Surg.) (a) An instrument for examining wounds and fistulas, and for passing setons, and the like; a probe, -- called also specillum. (b) A stiff wire, inserted in catheters or other tubular instruments to maintain their shape and prevent clogging.
  3. (Zoöl.) Any small, more or less rigid, bristlelike organ; as, the caudal stylets of certain insects; the ventral stylets of certain Infusoria.

Webster 1913