society > occupation and work > equipment > building and constructing equipment > fastenings > [noun] > key > parts of key > bit (6)
The part of a key, at right angles to the barrel or shank, which grips the levers of the lock.
the part of a key that engages with the lever of a lock; = bit, n.1 7.
The part of a key that engages with the lock lever; = bit, n.1 7. Also: each of the teeth or notches in this (rare). Obsolete.