Learn about the difference between the homophones: nit and knit

Definitions

nit

Nit is a noun that refers to the egg of a louse or a small parasitic insect.

Example

She found a nit in her daughter's hair.

Example

The teacher sent a note home warning about nits in the classroom.

knit

Knit is a verb that means to make fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with knitting needles or a machine. It can also be used as a noun referring to the fabric made by knitting.

Example

She is knitting a sweater for her grandson.

Example

I love the feel of knit blankets on a cold winter night.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

- To remember the difference between nit and knit, you could think of the 'k' in knit standing for 'knitting needles'. - Alternatively, you could associate nit with 'parasite' since it refers to the egg of a louse, while knit could be associated with 'fabric' since it refers to the process of making fabric.