What does pitted mean?
Pitted describes something that has been marked by pits, dents, or other damage, as though its surface has been repeatedly struck or worn away. In figurative contexts, it can suggest that something is morally tainted, troubled, or compromised by an unpleasant experience. The phrase “pitted against” describes a person or thing being placed in competition or conflict with another: one proposal may be pitted against another, or a team may be pitted against a formidable opponent. As the past tense and past participle of “pit,” it also appears in constructions such as “pitted with bullets.” The word is useful because it connects the vivid physical idea of a marked surface with broader descriptions of damaged reputations, controversial circumstances, and direct competition. It is formal and broadly understood in contemporary British and American English.
Having one or more pits, dents, or cavities; marked by damage or erosion.
"The road surface became pitted and difficult to drive on."
Also used figuratively for something morally tainted or compromised.
Past tense and past participle of “pit,” especially in the construction “pitted against,” meaning placed in competition or conflict with.
"The young champion was pitted against the defending title holder."
From a literal dent to a moral stain, “pitted” captures the idea that a surface—or a reputation—can be marked by adversity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pitted come from?
The adjective and verb forms derive from the noun “pit” and the verb “to pit.” The noun comes from Old English “pytte, in the sense of a hollow or depression, and “to pit” developed from placing someone or something in a pit before acquiring the figurative sense of setting one person or thing against another. The form “pitted” reflects the regular English past-tense and past-participle ending “-ed.”
Related word forms
How pitted is actually used
The literal senses are common in both British and American English. The figurative sense “tainted or compromised” is especially associated with politics, morality, and reputation, while “pitted against” is widely used in competitive and adversarial contexts.
Easily confused with pitted
Pitted describes something marked by pits, damage, or conflict, whereas pitied means regarded with sympathy.