Bit

1. (noun) A piece of metal placed in a horse's mouth and connected to the reins to direct the animal. 2. (noun) A rotary cutting tool fitted to a drill, used to bore holes. 3. (noun) A coin of a specified value. 4. (noun) A ten-cent piece, dime. 5. (noun) A unit of currency or coin in the Americas worth a fraction of a Spanish dollar; now specifically, an eighth of a US dollar. 6. (noun) In the southern and southwestern states, a small silver coin (such as the real) formerly current; commonly, one worth about 12½ cents; also, the sum of 12½ cents. 7. (noun) A small amount of something. 8. (noun) Specifically, a small amount of time. 9. (noun) (plural) Fractions of a second. 10. (noun) A portion of something. 11. (noun) Somewhat; something, but not very great; also used like jot and whit to express the smallest degree. See also a bit. 12. (noun) A prison sentence, especially a short one. 13. (noun) An excerpt of material making up part of a show, comedy routine, etc. 14. (noun) A small part or role, sometimes with spoken lines, in a theatrical performance. 15. (noun) The part of a key which enters the lock and acts upon the bolt and tumblers. 16. (noun) The cutting iron of a plane. 17. (noun) The bevelled front edge of an axehead along which the cutting edge runs. 18. (verb) To put a bridle upon; to put the bit in the mouth of (a horse).