bitten

word · lemma: bite

/ˈbɪtən/
BI-tuhn
/bˈɪtən/
BI-tuhn

Definition

'Bitten' is the past participle of 'bite,' meaning that something has been wounded or affected by a bite, often by an animal or insect.

Usage & Nuances

Always used as a past participle (often with 'have' or 'was'), not a verb by itself. Common in phrases like 'bitten by a dog/snake/insect.' Also found in figurative expressions like 'once bitten, twice shy.' Do not confuse with 'bit' (simple past).

Example Sentences

The dog has bitten his shoe.

basic

Have you ever been bitten by a snake?

basic

I got bitten by ants during our hike.

natural

He looked scared after being bitten by the dog.

natural

Once bitten, twice shy, so I stay away from bees now.

natural

She was bitten by a mosquito last night.

basic