tutu

noun

tu·​tu ˈtü-(ˌ)tü How to pronounce tutu (audio)
: a short projecting skirt worn by a ballerina

Illustration of tutu

Illustration of tutu

Examples of tutu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Blunt wore a gothic Dior stunner with a tutu in London. — Alli Rosenbloom, CNN Money, 28 Apr. 2026 A little girl riding a bike with training wheels, notwithstanding her hot pink tutu. — Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 13 Feb. 2026 My leotard was red with a black tulle tutu held in place by Velcro, and the headband resembled a Spanish dancer’s. — Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026 Available in classic neutrals like black, beige, and silver, plus fun shades like wisteria, tutu pink, and red jam, there’s a color for every mood. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 20 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tutu

Word History

Etymology

French, from (baby talk) tutu backside

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tutu was in 1913

Rhymes for tutu

See All Rhymes for tutu

Browse Nearby Words

tutty
tutu
Tutu
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tutu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tutu. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tutu

noun
tu·​tu ˈtü-tü How to pronounce tutu (audio)
: a short skirt that extends out and is worn by a ballerina
Etymology

French tutu "ballerina skirt," from baby talk tutu "backside"

Biographical Definition

Tutu

biographical name

ˈtü-ˌtü How to pronounce Tutu (audio)
Desmond Mpilo 1931–2021 South African clergyman and political activist

More from Merriam-Webster on tutu

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tutu

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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