tits (tit)

[In the phrase tit for tat, a variation of tip for tap: see under tip2, n. Tit and tat in this phrase are in themselves meaningle ; the phrase is often written with hyphens, tit - for - tat, and indeed is better so written, being practically one word.] In the phrase tit for tat (literally, in the original form tip for tap, 'blow for blow'), a retaliatory return; an equivalent by way of repartee or answer: as, to give a person tit for tat in a dispute or a war of wit. Tit for tat , Betsey! You are right, my girl. Colman and Garrick , Clandestine Marriage, v. 2. I have had my tit - for - tat with John Ru ell, and I turned him out on Friday last. Palmers ton , in McCarthy's Hist. Own Times, xxiii.