Definition of: bite

(bīt) v. bit, bit·ten or Colloq. bit, bit·ing v.t.
1. To seize, tear, or wound with the teeth.
2. To cut or tear off with or as with the teeth: usually with off: He bit off his words.
3. To cut or pierce, as with a sword.
4. To sting, as mosquitoes.
5. To cause to smart, as a cold wind.
6. To eat into; corrode, as acid.
7. To grip; take hold of.
8. To cheat; trick.
—v.i.
9. To seize or cut into something with the teeth.
10. To sting; have the effect of biting, as mustard.
11. To take firm hold; grip.
12. To take a bait, as fish.
13. To be tricked; accept a deceptive offer.
—to bite off more than one can chew To attempt something beyond one's capabilities.
—to bite the dust (or ground) To be vanquished or slain.
—noun
1. The act of biting, or the hurt inflicted by biting; also, a painful sensation; smart.
2. A morsel of food; mouthful.
3. The grip or hold taken by a tool or piece of mechanism. ◆ Homophone: bight. [OE bītan]
—bit′a·ble, bite′a·ble adjective
—bit′er noun