bite

bite [bīt]

vt.

bit [bit] bitten [bit′'n] or biting [ME biten < OE bītan < IE base * bheid-, to split, crack > BEETLE¹, BITTER, L findere, to split (see FISSION)]

1. to seize, pierce, or cut with the teeth or with parts like jaws

2. to cut into, as with a sharp weapon

3. to sting, as an insect

4. to hurt in a sharp, stinging way

5. to eat into; corrode

6. to infect or possess: used esp. in the passive [bitten by a lust for power]

7. to cheat or trick: used esp. in the passive

vi.

1.

a) to press or snap the teeth (into, at, etc.)

b) to have a tendency to do this

2. to cause a biting sensation or have a biting effect

3. to get or keep a tight hold; grip [the car wheels bit into the snow]

4. to seize a bait

5. to be caught, as by a trick

6. Slang SUCK (vi. 6)

n.

1. the act of biting

2. biting quality; sting [a bite to his words]

3. a wound, bruise, or sting from biting

4.

a) amount of food bitten off; mouthful or morsel

b) food

c) a meal, esp. a light meal or snack

5. a tight hold or grip

6. an edge or surface that grips

☆ 7. Informal an amount cut off or sum deducted [the tax takes quite a bite from my paycheck ]

☆ 8. Slang money or price asked; cost; expense: with the: usually used in the phrase put the bite on, to press for a loan, gift, or bribe of money

9. Dentistry the way the upper and lower teeth meet

10. Etching the corrosion of the metal plate by the acid

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☆ bite off more than one can chew

Informal to attempt more than one is capable of

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bite the bullet Informal

to confront a painful situation with fortitude or stoicism: from an earlier practice of having the patient bite on a bullet during battlefield surgery when no anesthetic was available

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bite the hand that feeds one

Informal to insult or harm a benefactor