bit

¹bit

noun \ˈbit\

Definition of BIT

1

a (1) : the biting or cutting edge or part of a tool (2) : a replaceable part of a compound tool that actually performs the function (as drilling or boring) for which the whole tool is designed b plural : the jaws of tongs or pincers

2

: something bitten or held with the teeth: a : the usually steel part of a bridle inserted in the mouth of a horse b : the rimmed mouth end on the stem of a pipe or cigar holder

3

: something that curbs or restrains

4

: the part of a key that enters the lock and acts on the bolt and tumblers

Illustration of BIT

Origin of BIT

Middle English bitt, from Old English bite act of biting; akin to Old English bītan bite

First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with BIT

bitt, brit, Brit, chit, dit, fit, flit, frit, git, grit, hit, it, kit, knit, lit, mitt, nit, pit, quit, sit, skit, slit, snit, spit, split, Split, sprit, teat, tit, twit, whit, wit, writ, zit