bit part

American  

noun

1. bit.

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bit part British  

noun

1. a very small acting role with few lines to speak

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Etymology

Origin of bit part

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Eagle-eyed fans may also recognise him from early bit parts in Channel 4 sitcoms such as Fresh Meat and Hang Ups.

From BBC

Palka, a former station captain who retired as a commander in 2021, was often referred to as “Capt. Hollywood” and known for mingling with stars, scoring a bit part in the TV series “Bosch.”

From Los Angeles Times

Only the Blue Jays were different, unwilling to accept their role as bit part characters in somebody else’s show.

From The Wall Street Journal

To my great surprise, I had no memory that John Candy had a stellar bit part in the film as a modest Midwestern polka player.

From Salon

Manville emerged elsewhere in an almost unrecognizable bit part in Luca Guadagino’s latest film “Queer,” a role that any actor would covet but few could pull off with the same conviction.

From Salon

Related Words

• walk-on