STYLET

Sty″let (?), n. [[F., dim. of style; cf. It. stiletto. See Stiletto.]] A small poniard; a stiletto. 2. 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. 3. (Zoöl.) Any small, more or less rigid, bristlelike organ; as, the caudal stylets of certain insects; the ventral stylets of certain Infusoria.