stylo

Stylo is a term used to denote a writing instrument, most commonly a pen. In French, stylo is the standard word for any pen, from fountain to ballpoint. In English and other languages, stylo is sometimes used as a loanword in French-language contexts or in captions and signage to evoke French style.

Etymology and historical development: The word stylo derives from the French stylographe, itself from Greek stylos “stylus” and graphein “to write.” The term stylograph historically referred to a pen with an internal ink reservoir designed for smooth writing. The broader family of writing tools includes fountain pens, ballpoint pens, gel pens, and mechanical pencils; “stylo” can be used to describe any of these in French.

In modern technology, “stylo” may refer to digital styluses used with tablets and touchscreen devices. These devices translate hand movements into digital input and may include features such as pressure sensitivity, tilt sensing, and palm rejection in newer models. The term is often found in product names or marketing materials in French-speaking markets.