Definition of bit
1a (1) : the biting or cutting edge or part of a tool (2) : a replaceable part of a compound tool that actually performs the function (such as drilling or boring) for which the whole tool is designed put a new bit in the drill used a 1/4 inch bit to make the holeb bits plural : the jaws (see 1jaw 2a) 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 horseb : 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 (see tumbler 3a)
From the M-W Editors
Illustration of bit
Origin and Etymology of bit
Middle English bitt, from Old English bite act of biting; akin to Old English bītan bite
First Known Use: 14th century
Origin and Etymology of bit
see 1bit
First Known Use: 1583
bit
Definition of bit
1 : a small quantity of food; especially : a small delicacy
2a : a small piece or quantity of some material thing broken bits of glass picking bits of lint off her sweaterb (1) British : a coin of a specified small denomination a threepenny bit (2) : a unit of value equal to 1⁄8 of a U.S. dollar (12 1⁄2 cents) —used only of even multiples four bits ◆No coin was every issued in this amount. — see also two bits 1
3 : something small or unimportant of its kind: such asa : a brief period : while wait a bit longerb : an indefinite usually small degree, extent, or amount a bit of a rascal every bit as powerful a bit too sweetc theater (1) : a small part usually with spoken lines in a theatrical performance a bit part bit players (2) : a usually short theatrical routine a corny comedy bit
4 : the aggregate of items, situations, or activities appropriate to a given style, genre, or role rejected the whole bit about love-marriage-motherhood — Vance Packard
a bit much
: a little more than one wants to endure finds his constant joking a bit much
bit by bit
: by degrees : little by little getting better bit by bit
to bits
: totally, thoroughly thrilled to bits
Origin and Etymology of bit
Middle English, from Old English bita; akin to Old English bītan bite
First Known Use: before 12th century
bit
Definition of bit
computers
1 : a unit of computer information equivalent to the result of a choice between two alternatives (such as yes or no, on or off)
2 : the physical representation of a bit by an electrical pulse, a magnetized spot, or a hole whose presence or absence indicates data
Origin and Etymology of bit
binary digit
First Known Use: 1948
BIT Defined for Kids
Definition of bit for Students
1 : a part of a bridle that is put in the horse's mouth
2 : the cutting or boring edge or part of a tool
Definition of bit for Students
: a unit of computer information that represents the selection of one of two possible choices (as on or off)
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See words that rhyme with bit Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for bit Spanish Central: Translation of bit Nglish: Translation of bit for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of bit for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bit
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