digit Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration
    figure.
    • 0 and 1 are digits
  2. noun the length of breadth of a finger used as a linear measure
    finger's breadth; fingerbreadth; finger.
  3. noun a finger or toe in human beings or corresponding body part in other vertebrates
    dactyl.

WordNet

Dig"it noun
Etymology
L. digitus finger; prob. akin to Gr. , of uncertain origin; possibly akin to E. toe. Cf. Dactyl.
Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.) One of the terminal divisions of a limb appendage; a finger or toe.
    The ruminants have the "cloven foot," i. e., two hoofed digits on each foot. Owen.
  2. A finger's breadth, commonly estimated to be three fourths of an inch.
  3. (Math.) One of the ten figures or symbols, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, by which all numbers are expressed; -- so called because of the use of the fingers in counting and computing. ✍ By some authorities the symbol 0 is not included with the digits.
  4. (Anat.) One twelfth part of the diameter of the sun or moon; -- a term used to express the quantity of an eclipse; as, an eclipse of eight digits is one which hides two thirds of the diameter of the disk.
Dig"it transitive verb
Definitions
  1. To point at or out with the finger. R.

Webster 1913