a bit
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bit 1
(bĭt)n.
Idioms: 1. A small portion, degree, or amount: a bit of lint; a bit of luck.
2. A brief amount of time; a moment: Wait a bit.
3.
a. A short scene or episode in a theatrical performance.
b. A bit part.
4. An entertainment routine given regularly by a performer; an act.
5. Informal
a. A particular kind of action, situation, or behavior: got tired of the macho bit.
b. A matter being considered: What's this bit about inflation?
6. Informal An amount equal to one eighth of a dollar: two bits.
7. Chiefly British A small coin: a threepenny bit.
a bit
To a small degree; somewhat: a bit warm.
bit by bit
Little by little; gradually.
do (one's) bit
To do one's part or contribute one's share.
bit 2
(bĭt)n.
1. The sharp part of a tool, such as the cutting edge of a knife or axe.
2. A pointed and threaded tool for drilling and boring that is secured in a brace, bitstock, or drill press.
3. The part of a key that enters the lock and engages the bolt and tumblers.
4. The tip of the mouthpiece on a pipe or a cigarette or cigar holder.
5. The metal mouthpiece of a bridle, serving to control, curb, and direct an animal.
6. Something that controls, guides, or curbs.
tr.v. bit·ted, bit·ting, bits
Idiom: 1. To place a bit in the mouth of (a horse, for example).
2. To check or control with or as if with a bit.
3. To make or grind a bit on (a key).
have/take the bit in one's teeth
To be uncontrollable; cast off restraint.
bit 3
(bĭt)n. Computers
A binary digit, having either the value 0 or 1, used to store or represent data.
[From b(inary dig)it.]
bit 4
(bĭt)v.
Past tense and a past participle of bite.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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Adv. | 1. | a bit - to a small degree; somewhat; "it's a bit warm"; "felt a little better"; "a trifle smaller" |
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