Sit

Definition

The term "sit" refers to the act of resting one's body on a chair, floor, or other surface by bending the legs and keeping the upper body upright.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪt/
• Respelling: SIT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪt/
• Respelling: SIT

Etymology

The word "sit" comes from Old English "sittan," meaning "to remain in a seated position or rest," derived from Proto-Germanic "sitjaną" and Proto-Indo-European "sed-," meaning "to sit or settle."

Derivatives

• Sitting (noun/verb)
• Sat (verb, past tense)
• Sitter (noun)
• Sit-in (noun)
• Outsit (verb)

Synonyms

• Rest
• Perch
• Settle

Antonyms

• Stand
• Rise
• Lie

Usage

The term "sit" is commonly used to describe the physical act of sitting or metaphorically to indicate presence or inactivity. For example, "Please sit down," or "The decision will sit with the committee for review."

Related Terms

• Seat: A place designed for sitting.
• Chair: A piece of furniture used for sitting.
• Posture: The position of the body while sitting or standing.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To rest one's body in a position supported by one's buttocks: — the physical act of lowering yourself into a seated posture.
  • Example: "She decided to sit on the bench and relax."
• To remain inactive in a place or situation:to stay unused or unmoved in a given spot or context.
  • Example: "The file will sit on the desk until it is reviewed."
• To be in a specified position or state:to occupy a particular location or condition.
  • Example: "The vase sits on the mantle."

Noun

• An act of sitting or a period of sitting:one continuous instance of remaining seated.
  • Example: "The artist completed the portrait in one sit."
• A session or meeting:informal term for a short gathering or period of discussion.
  • Example: "The committee held a brief sit to discuss the agenda."