Hit

Definition

Hit refers to striking someone or something with force, achieving a desired target, or becoming widely successful. It can function as a verb, noun, or adjective in various contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun
• Adjective (informal)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɪt/
• Respelling: hit

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɪt/
• Respelling: hit

Etymology

The word "hit" originates from Old English "hittan," meaning "to meet, come upon, or strike." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*hittaną*" and the Old Norse "hitta," which means "to find or meet." The usage expanded in Middle English to include achieving success or a specific target.

Derivatives

• Hitting (verb)
• Hitman (noun)
• Hitless (adjective)
• Rehit (verb)
• Overhit (verb)

Synonyms

• Strike
• Blow
• Success

Antonyms

• Miss
• Avoid
• Failure

Usage

The term "hit" is widely used in physical, metaphorical, and cultural contexts. For example, "He hit the ball out of the park," or "The song was a massive hit around the world."

Related Terms

• Impact: A forceful strike or collision.
• Target: An objective or point aimed for.
• Success: The accomplishment of a goal.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To strike someone or something with force: Describes a physical action of contact.
  • Example: "The boxer hit his opponent with a powerful punch."
• To achieve or reach a target: Indicates successfully attaining an objective.
  • Example: "The arrow hit the bullseye."
• To affect or impact significantly: Refers to influencing or causing a strong effect.
  • Example: "The economic crisis hit the nation hard."

Noun

• A blow or strike: Refers to a physical impact or collision.
  • Example: "The punch was a solid hit."
• A successful achievement or popular item: Describes something widely accepted or acclaimed.
  • Example: "The movie was a box-office hit."
• A successful action in sports or gaming: Indicates making contact or achieving success in a game.
  • Example: "He scored a home run with his first hit."

Adjective (informal)

• Highly successful or popular: Used to describe something widely accepted or trendy.
  • Example: "The hit song topped the charts for weeks."