noun

stylus

Stylus (noun) means an ancient writing implement consisting of a small rod with a pointed end for scratching letters on clay, wax-covered tablets or other surfaces, and a blunt end for obliterating them.

noun

An ancient writing implement consisting of a small rod with a pointed end for scratching letters on clay, wax-covered tablets or other surfaces, and a blunt end for obliterating them.

A small implement with a pointed end used for engraving and tracing.

A small device resembling a pen used to input handwritten text or drawings directly into an electronic device with a touch-sensitive screen.

A hard-pointed pen-shaped instrument for marking on stencils used in a mimeograph machine.

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “stylus” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin stylus (“a stake or pale”). Probably not directly related to Ancient Greek στῦλος (stûlos, “a pillar”). Doublet of style.

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of stylus?

"stylus" (noun) means an ancient writing implement consisting of a small rod with a pointed end for scratching letters on clay, wax-covered tablets or other surfaces, and a blunt end for obliterating them.

What are the different meanings of stylus?

"stylus" has 3 main meanings: 1. An ancient writing implement consisting of a small rod with a pointed end for scratching letters on clay, wax-covered tablets or other surfaces, and a blunt end for obliterating them; 2. A small implement with a pointed end used for engraving and tracing; 3. A small device resembling a pen used to input handwritten text or drawings directly into an electronic device with a touch-sensitive screen.