mite

mite pronunciation

/mite/

Meaning

Usually shows up as "a mite," meaning a small amount or a slight degree. Somebody can be a mite tired, a mite cold, or have only a mite of meal left in the bin. It softens the complaint without making a big deal of it, which fits rural Southern and Appalachian talk.

How folks use it

• “You're lookin' a mite peaked today. You feelin' alright?”
• “There's only a mite of coffee left, so don't pour yourself half the pot.”

Origin and etymology

Older English used mite for something tiny, including a small coin and the little bug of the same name. From there it came to mean a tiny amount. Southern mountain speech kept "a mite" as everyday talk for "a little," the way folks also say "a tad."

Frequently asked questions