Meaning

(transitive) To cut into something by clamping the teeth..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To cut into something by clamping the teeth.
2. (transitive) To hold something by clamping one's teeth.
3. (intransitive) To attack with the teeth.
4. (intransitive, chiefly in the negative) To behave aggressively; to reject advances.
5. (intransitive) To take hold; to establish firm contact with.
6. (intransitive) To have significant effect, often negative.
7. (intransitive, of a fish) To bite a baited hook or other lure and thus be caught.
8. (intransitive, figurative) To accept something offered, often secretly or deceptively, to cause some action by the acceptor.

Example Sentences

As soon as you bite that sandwich, you'll know how good it is.

That dog is about to bite!

If you see me, come and say hello. I don't bite.

I needed snow chains to make the tires bite.

For homeowners with adjustable rate mortgages, rising interest will really bite.

Are the fish biting today?

I've planted the story. Do you think they'll bite?

These mosquitoes are really biting today!

Word Forms

• bites
• biting
• bit
• bitten

Synonyms for bite

Related Words

When Should You Use Bite?

Use bite when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions