bit3

 
Pronunciation: /bɪt/

noun

  • 1a mouthpiece, typically made of metal, which is attached to a bridle and used to control a horse.
  • 2a tool or piece for boring or drilling: a drill bit
  • the cutting or gripping part of a plane, pincers, or other tool.
  • the part of a key that engages with the lock lever.
  • the copper head of a soldering iron.

verb

[with object]
  • put a bit into the mouth of (a horse).

Phrases

above the bit

(of a horse) carrying its head too high so that it evades correct contact with the bit.

behind the bit

(of a horse) carrying its head with the chin tucked in so that it evades contact with the bit.

get (or take or have) the bit between (or North American in) one's teeth

begin to tackle a problem or task in a determined or independent way.

off the bit (or bridle)

(of a horse) ridden on a loose rein to allow it to gallop freely.

on the bit (or bridle)

(of a horse) ridden with a light but firm contact on the mouth.

Derivatives

bitted

adjective
[in combination]: a double-bitted axe

Origin:

Old English bite 'biting, a bite', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch beet and German Biss, also to bite