mite 1
/muyt/ , n.
any of numerous small to microscopic arachnids of the subclass Acari, including species that are parasitic on animals and plants or that feed on decaying matter and stored foods. Also called acarid .
[ bef. 1000; ME myte, OE mite; c. MD mite, OHG miza midge ]
mite 2
/muyt/ , n.
1. a contribution that is small but is all that a person can afford.
2. a very small sum of money.
3. a coin of very small value.
4. a very small object.
5. a very small creature.
adv.
6. to a small extent; somewhat (often prec. by a ): a mite selfish.
[ 1300-50; ME myte mite small copper coin; ult. identical with MITE 1 ]