Bit

bit, n. a bite, a morsel: a small piece: the smallest degree: a small tool for boring (see Brace ): the part of the bridle which the horse holds in his mouth (see Bridle )—hence, To take the bit in his teeth , to be beyond restraint.— v.t. to put the bit in the mouth; to curb or restrain:— pr.p. bit′ting; pa.p. bit′ted. — Bit by bit , piecemeal, gradually. [From Bite .]