Pit

Definition

Pit primarily denotes a large hole in the ground, either natural or dug out, but it has various other meanings depending on the context.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɪt/
• Respelling: PIT (with "PIT" as in "sit")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɪt/
• Respelling: PIT (similar to American English, with "PIT" as in "sit")

In both dialects, "pit" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable. The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, emphasizing the short "i" vowel sound, clear and simple.

Etymology

The word "pit" is of Old English origin, stemming from "pytt", which means a pit or hole. This word is related to the Old High German "pfuzzi" and the Latin "puteus" meaning well or pit.

Derivatives

• Pitfall
• Pits
• Pitted
• Pit-like
• Pitman

Synonyms

• Hole
• Cavity
• Trench

Antonyms

• Mound
• Peak
• Hillock

Usage

The word "pit" is versatile and is utilized in various scenarios, from the hollows in fruits to large excavations in the ground for mining or other purposes. Additionally, "pit" can be used metaphorically, as in "pit of despair", indicating a deep emotional low.

Related Terms

• Quarry
• Sinkhole
• Abyss
• Pothole
• Crater

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A large hole in the ground, typically one dug for mining purposes or as a trap.
• Example: "The mining pit was closed due to safety concerns."

• A hollow or indentation in a surface.
• Example: "There were pits on the road after the heavy rain."

• The stone inside a fruit.
• Example: "She removed the pit from the cherry before eating it."

• A designated section in auto racing tracks where vehicles can undergo maintenance during a race.
• Example: "The racecar entered the pit for a tire change."

Verb

• To set someone or something in opposition or rivalry with.
• Example: "The championship pitted the two best teams against each other."

• To mark or scar (a surface) with pits or depressions.
• Example: "The hailstorm pitted the car's bonnet."

• To remove the pit from (a fruit).
• Example: "She carefully pitted the olives before adding them to the salad."