Bit: meaning, definitions and examples

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bit

[ bɪt ]

^{Context #1}

computer technology

A bit is the smallest unit of data in a computer. It can have a value of either 0 or 1, representing binary digits.

Synonyms

binary digit, digit

Examples of usage

A byte consists of 8 bits.
This image file is 16 bits per pixel.
The processor processes data one bit at a time.

^{Context #2}

informal

A small piece, part, or quantity of something.

Synonyms

fragment, portion

Examples of usage

She added a bit of sugar to her coffee.
Can I have a bit of your sandwich?

^{Context #3}

informal

To perform in a specified manner, especially in a show or other entertainment.

Synonyms

act, perform

Examples of usage

She will be singing and dancing a bit in the play.
He can bit like a professional actor.

Translations

Translations of the word "bit" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bit

🇮🇳 बिट

🇩🇪 Bit

🇮🇩 bit

🇺🇦 біт

🇵🇱 bit

🇯🇵 ビット

🇫🇷 bit

🇪🇸 bit

🇹🇷 bit

🇰🇷 비트

🇸🇦 بت

🇨🇿 bit

🇸🇰 bit

🇨🇳 比特

🇸🇮 bit

🇮🇸 bit

🇰🇿 бит

🇬🇪 ბიტი

🇦🇿 bit

🇲🇽 bit

Word origin

The term 'bit' originated as a contraction of 'binary digit'. It was first introduced by Claude Shannon in his 1948 paper 'A Mathematical Theory of Communication'. The concept of bits and binary digits revolutionized the field of computing and information theory, leading to the development of digital technology as we know it today.