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stylet

A small poniard; a stiletto.

2. (Science: surgery) An instrument for examining wounds and fistulas, and for passing setons, and the like; a probe, called also specillum. A stiff wire, inserted in catheters or other tubular instruments to maintain their shape and prevent clogging.

3. (Science: zoology) Any small, more or less rigid, bristlelike organ; as, the caudal stylets of certain insects; the ventral stylets of certain infusoria.

Origin: F, dim. Of style; cf. It. Stiletto. See Stiletto.