1. The sharp part of a tool, such as the cutting edge of a knife or ax. 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.
TRANSITIVE VERB:
Inflected forms: bit·ted, bit·ting, bits 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).
IDIOM:
have(or take)the bit in one's teeth To be uncontrollable; cast off restraint.
ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English bite, from Old English, act of biting. See bheid- in Appendix I.
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