Stylet

2 definitions found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Stylet \Sty"let\, n. [F., dim. of style; cf. It. stiletto. See
     {Stiletto}.]
     A small poniard; a stiletto.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     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.
            [1913 Webster]
  
     3. (Zool.) Any small, more or less rigid, bristlelike organ;
        as, the caudal stylets of certain insects; the ventral
        stylets of certain Infusoria.
        [1913 Webster]

From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:

  stylet
       n : small needle-like appendage; especially the feeding organ of
           a tardigrade