Meaning & Definition of word "Pit"

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    Pit

    /pɪt/

    noun:

    • 1. A hole or cavity in the ground, often used for storage or as a place for disposal.
      • Example: The workers dug a pit to bury the old machinery.
    • 2. A large pit, usually in a quarry or mine, where minerals or other materials are extracted.
      • Example: The gravel pit provided materials for the construction projects in the area.
    • 3. A space or area in a specified context, such as 'the pit of despair.'
      • Example: He found himself in the pit of despair after losing his job.
    • 4. The seed or stone of a fruit, typically a hard or tough part.
      • Example: She removed the pit from the peach before slicing it.

    verb:

    • 1. To make a hole in the ground; to excavate.
      • Example: They decided to pit the area for a new swimming pool.
    • 2. To set in opposition or contest against one another.
      • Example: The two teams were pitted against each other in the final match.

    Etymology

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

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    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.

    Related Words

    pitfall:

    A hidden or unsuspected danger or difficulty.

    pitted:

    Having pits or small depressions.

    Slang Meanings of pit

    Meaning: A bad situation or predicament.

    Example Sentence: I really fell into a pit when I lost my job.

    Meaning: An area of a concert where the audience stands.

    Example Sentence: We got right in the pit for the mosh pit during the concert.