Fit
/fɪt/
Definitions
7 meaningsTo be the correct size and shape for something; to suit.
/fɪt/
To be of the right shape and size for something.
The key fits the lock.
💡 Simply: Imagine trying on a new shirt. If it's not too big or too small, and it feels good, it 'fits'! It's the right size for you.
👶 For kids: When something is the right size and shape for you, like your shoes or your clothes, it 'fits'!
More Examples
This coat fits me perfectly.
Can you fit the picture into the frame?
How It's Used
"The shoes fit perfectly."
"The tailor fitted the suit to the customer's measurements."
To be appropriate or suitable for; to harmonize.
/fɪt/
To be suitable or appropriate.
The description fits the suspect.
💡 Simply: Imagine the perfect gift for someone. If it's something they love and is appropriate for the occasion, it 'fits'.
👶 For kids: When something is right or good for something else, like a puzzle piece or the right toy to play with, it 'fits'!
More Examples
This information fits into the bigger picture.
The music fits the mood of the film perfectly.
How It's Used
"The punishment fits the crime."
"This behavior doesn't fit with our company's values."
To prepare or make someone or something ready for a particular purpose.
/fɪt/
To make something ready for a purpose.
We need to fit the new equipment.
💡 Simply: When you put something where it needs to go or get it ready for use, like attaching a new part on your bike, you are 'fitting' it.
👶 For kids: When you put something in the right place or get something ready to use, like fixing a toy, that's called 'fitting'!
More Examples
The mechanic fitted new tires on the car.
They fitted the windows after the frame was built.
How It's Used
"They are fitting the pipes in the new building."
"He fitted the new software on his computer."
To be of a suitable size or shape.
/fɪt/
To be the right size and shape.
Does the shirt fit?
💡 Simply: When a piece of clothing is the perfect size for you, or a key can lock your door, it is 'fitting'.
👶 For kids: When something is the perfect size or shape for something else, like when your shoes feel perfect for your feet or your socks fit your toes!
More Examples
These shoes don't fit me.
That answer fits the question.
How It's Used
"Does it fit?"
A sudden attack of illness or a seizure.
/fɪt/
A sudden attack of illness; a seizure or convulsion.
He collapsed and had a fit.
💡 Simply: When someone suddenly feels sick or has a convulsion, like fainting or a seizure, this is called a 'fit'.
👶 For kids: When someone feels sick or has a sudden convulsion, like when your body is shaking or can't move, it is called a 'fit'!
More Examples
She was taken to the hospital after suffering a fit.
The doctor diagnosed a fit after the sudden collapse.
How It's Used
"The patient suffered a fit."
A sudden outburst of anger or temper.
/fɪt/
A mood of anger or irritation.
She threw a fit when she didn't get the toy.
💡 Simply: When someone gets very angry or throws a tantrum, like when you're upset that you can't play with a toy, this is called having a 'fit'.
👶 For kids: When you get really, really angry and maybe even start crying or yelling, this is called having a 'fit'.
More Examples
He's in a fit because he missed the bus.
The child had a fit, screaming and crying.
How It's Used
"He had a fit when he heard the news."
"She threw a fit because she didn't get her way."
In good health and physically capable.
/fɪt/
In good health and physical condition.
She is fit enough to run a marathon.
💡 Simply: When you are in good shape, strong, and healthy enough to run around and play, you are 'fit'.
👶 For kids: When your body is strong and healthy so you can run and play, you're 'fit'!
More Examples
The athlete is in top fit condition.
Staying fit is important for overall health.
How It's Used
"He is fit and ready to play the game."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
in a fit of
Suddenly and with a strong feeling, especially of anger or excitement.
"In a fit of rage, he stormed out of the room."
to see fit
to consider something appropriate, right, or proper
"The president will do what he sees fit."
From Old English *fitt* ('a fight, struggle') and *fitten* ('to prepare'), also influenced by Middle Dutch *fitten* and Old Norse *fitta*.
Historically, 'fit' was used as a noun to refer to a 'song' or a 'section of a poem,' a usage now obsolete except in some regional dialects.
Memory tip
Think of Cinderella's glass slipper - it 'fit' perfectly.
Word Origin
"to prepare, be suitable"