Search Dictionary
Definition of mite

mite

/maɪt/
mite

Plural:mites
JUMP TO:

mite Lexical Profile

mite Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of numerous very small parasitic or free-living arachnids that have a rounded, unsegmented body and often inhabit soil, plants, or animals.

Example

"Microscopic dust mites living in the mattress can trigger severe indoor allergies."


2

A very small amount, portion, or particle.

Example

"She did not offer a single mite of comfort to her grieving friend."


3

A small or pitiful creature, especially a small child (often used affectionately or sympathetically).

Example

"The poor little mite was shivering in the cold rain waiting for the bus."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for mite
Antonyms
View all antonyms for mite

Word Nuance & Usage

The word 'mite' is a homophone with 'might'; 'mite' refers to a tiny arachnid or a small amount, whereas 'might' indicates strength, power, or a conditional possibility.

• Rhymes for mite

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'mīte' (small biting insect), from Proto-Germanic 'mītō'. The sense of a 'small amount' stems from Middle Dutch 'mīte', referring to a tiny Flemish copper coin.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mite. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mite
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.