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

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

With her signature husky voice and confident delivery, there’s no reason Lohan wouldn’t be the perfect choice for a similar bit part.

From Salon

The actor and comedian toiled for years in bit parts before getting his big break on HBO’s ‘Silicon Valley.’

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• walk-on