spit

UK: /spɪt/ | US: /spɪt/

Definition
  1. v. to eject saliva or other substances from the mouth

  2. v. to rain or snow lightly

  3. n. saliva ejected from the mouth

  4. n. a thin rod for roasting meat over a fire

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "spit" traces back to Old English spittan, meaning "to eject saliva," likely of imitative origin (reflecting the sound of spitting). The noun sense of "saliva" emerged from the verb. The unrelated meaning of "a rod for roasting meat" comes from Old English spitu, derived from Proto-Germanic spituz, possibly linked to the idea of something sharp or pointed. Despite identical spelling, these two meanings evolved separately.

Examples
  1. He angrily spit on the ground.

  2. It’s just spitting rain—no need for an umbrella.

  3. Wipe the spit off your chin.

  4. She turned the spit to roast the chicken evenly.

  5. Spitting in public is considered rude in many cultures.