bit
1. bit \'bit\ n [ME bitt, fr. OE bite act of biting; akin to OE bi-tan] 1:
something bitten or held with the teeth : 1a: the usu. steel part of a
bridle inserted in the mouth of a horse 1b: the rimmed mouth end on the
stem of a pipe or cigar holder 2a: the biting or cutting edge or part of a
tool; also : a replacea ble part of a compound tool that actually performs
the function (as drilling or boring) for which the whole tool is designed
pl 2b: the jaws or nippers of tongs or pincers 3: something that curbs or
restrains 4: the part of a key that enters the lock and acts on the bolt
and tumblers
2. bit vt or bit.ted; or bit.ting 1a: to put a bit in the mouth of (a
horse) 1b: to control as if with a bit : CURB 2: to form a bit on (a key)
3. bit n [ME, fr. OE bita; akin to OE bi-tan] 1: a small quantity of food :
MORSEL; esp : a small delicac y 2a: a small piece or quantity of some
material thing 2b1: a small coin 2b2: a unit of value equal to 1/8 of a
dollar {four ~Xs} 3: something small or unimportant of its kind : as 3a: a
brief period : WHILE 3b: SOMEWHAT : some degree or extent 3c: the
smallest or an insignificant amount or degree 3d: a small part usu. with
spoken lines in a theatrical performance
4. bit n [binary digit] 1: a unit of information equivalent to the result
of a choice between two e qually probable alternatives 2: a unit of
computer memory corresponding to the ability to store the resu lt of a
choice between two alternatives