bit

UK: bɪt | US: bɪt

Definition

  1. n. a small piece or quantity of something

  2. n. (computing) the smallest unit of information in a computer (binary digit)

  3. n. the metal part of a bridle inserted in a horse’s mouth

  4. vt. (past tense of "bite") to cut or grip with the teeth

Structure
it <unit>
Etymology

The word "bit" has multiple distinct origins:

  1. Computing sense: Coined in 1948 by Claude Shannon, blending "binary" + "digit" to describe the smallest data unit.
  2. General sense (small piece): From Old English bitla (biting), related to "bite." The idea of a "piece" comes from the action of biting off a fragment.
  3. Equestrian sense: From Old English bite (act of biting), referring to the tool that "bites" the horse’s mouth.
Examples

  1. She broke the cookie into tiny bits.

  2. A single bit can represent 0 or 1 in binary code.

  3. The horse chewed nervously on the bit.

  4. He bit into the apple and handed me the rest.

  5. The software processes data one bit at a time.