penlight

American  

[pen-lahyt] / ˈpɛnˌlaɪt /

Or penlite

noun

1. a flashlight similar in size and shape to a fountain pen.

---

Etymology

Origin of penlight

First recorded in 1955–60; pen ¹ + light ¹

Example Sentences

Each sample has been split into two tubes the size of a penlight.

From Science Magazine • Jul. 27, 2022

According to Daniel’s long-standing protocol, the waiter requests that you cut into your steak while she waits, then flashes a penlight on the interior so you can verify it is exactly the doneness you require.

From Seattle Times • May 2, 2019

“I’m not an authenticator,” said Clark, bending to guide an ultraviolet penlight over the surface of the painting in an inch-by-inch search pattern.

From Washington Times • Oct. 1, 2018

There were so many patients, Granada used a penlight and gauze to make tourniquets when the supplies ran out.

From Salon • Jun. 23, 2018

First came a Swiss Army knife, a flashlight, a penlight, and a bottle of extra-strength glue, which Kate examined to be sure its lid was tightly closed.

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart