Pit

/pɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A hole or cavity in the ground, often used for storage or as a place for disposal.

The workers dug a pit to bury the old machinery.

A large pit, usually in a quarry or mine, where minerals or other materials are extracted.

The gravel pit provided materials for the construction projects in the area.

A space or area in a specified context, such as 'the pit of despair.'

He found himself in the pit of despair after losing his job.

The seed or stone of a fruit, typically a hard or tough part.

She removed the pit from the peach before slicing it.

verb

To make a hole in the ground; to excavate.

They decided to pit the area for a new swimming pool.

To set in opposition or contest against one another.

The two teams were pitted against each other in the final match.

Middle English; from Old English 'pytt', of uncertain origin.

pit stop:

A brief stop made during a journey, especially for refueling or servicing a vehicle.

pit one's wits against:

To challenge someone intellectually.

in the pits:

In a state of failure or difficulty.

A bad situation or predicament.

I really fell into a pit when I lost my job.

An area of a concert where the audience stands.

We got right in the pit for the mosh pit during the concert.