What does slit mean?
A slit is a long, narrow cut or opening. The word can name the mark left by cutting a surface, as in a slit in a wall, or a narrow space through which light, air, or a view can pass. As a verb, slit means to cut or split something along a straight, narrow line. Its past tense and past participle are “slitted” and “slitting.” In clothing, a “slit” is an intentional opening in a garment, while in physical anatomy it can describe a long, narrow incision or opening. The word is common in both British and American English and can sound more clinical or graphic when it refers to cutting flesh, but it remains neutral when describing clothing, packaging, doors, or other materials. Its usefulness lies in specifying a narrow cut or opening more precisely than a general term such as “cut” or “gap.”
A long, narrow cut or opening in a surface, object, garment, or material.
"A narrow slit in the shutters let in a line of sunlight."
The plural is “slits.” In anatomy, the term can refer to a long, narrow incision or natural opening.
To cut or split something along a long, narrow line.
"They slit the plastic wrapping with a sharp knife."
The past tense and past participle are “slitted” and “slitting.” The verb may also be used intransitively: “The fabric slit easily.”
Use “slits” for more than one narrow cut or opening.
"The walls were covered with narrow slits that allowed light into the room."
A slit is both the mark left by a narrow cut and the space through which someone might peer.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slit come from?
The verb comes through Middle English from Old English “slītan,” meaning “to split” or “cleave.” This developed from a Germanic root associated with splitting or dividing. The noun developed alongside the verb and came to denote the narrow cut or opening produced by such an action.
Related word forms
How slit is actually used
The past tense and past participle are “slitted” and “slitting.” The verb is commonly transitive, but it can also be used intransitively, especially when describing fabric or other material that splits.
Easily confused with slit
A slit is a narrow cut or opening, whereas a slight adjective means small in degree or of little importance.