bite

UK: baɪt | US: baɪt

Definition

  1. v. to cut or grip with the teeth

  2. v. (of insects/snakes) to sting or pierce

  3. n. an act of biting

  4. n. a small amount of food

Structure
bit <to cut/grip>bit <to cut/grip>
Etymology

The word "bite" traces back to Proto-Germanic bītaną, reflecting a primal action of using teeth to cut or hold. Its consistency across Germanic languages (e.g., German beißen, Dutch bijten) underscores its ancient roots in describing a fundamental physical act. The silent -e is a fossilized Middle English verb ending, preserved in spelling but no longer pronounced.

Examples

  1. The dog might bite if provoked.

  2. She took a small bite of the apple.

  3. Mosquito bites can cause itching.

  4. The cold wind bit into his cheeks.

  5. This sauce has a spicy bite to it.