Pronunciation: [bˈa͡ɪts at] (IPA) 
The phrase "bites at" can be a bit tricky when it comes to spelling. The word "bites" is easy enough, with the /b/ sound at the beginning followed by the long /ī/ sound and a final /s/. However, the word "at" can be spelled in a few different ways, depending on the context. In this case, "at" is spelled with the short /ă/ sound and a final /t/. So, "bites at" is spelled phonetically as /baɪts æt/.
The term "bites at" is a phrasal verb that encompasses several meanings depending on the context of its usage. Generally, "bites at" refers to an action or behavior that resembles a bite or a snap towards an object, individual, or situation. It often implies a sharp or aggressive reaction, typically associated with an attempt to grasp or seize something or even to respond irritably.
When related to animal behavior, "bites at" usually denotes a sudden or aggressive movement of an animal's jaws towards a target, often as an act of aggression or defense. For example, a dog that bites at a stick is attempting to catch or attack it.
In a figurative sense, "bites at" can also describe a person's response or reaction to an idea or proposition. It suggests a reflexive, often negative or skeptical, response where one reacts impulsively without deeply considering the matter at hand. For instance, if someone makes a sarcastic comment and another person bites at the provocation, they respond in an irritable or defensive manner.
Overall, "bites at" signifies a swift, potentially aggressive or impulsive reaction, either physically or verbally, towards an object, individual, or thought.
The phrase "bites at" does not have a specific etymology as it is formed by combining the words "bites" and "at". However, we can examine the origins of these individual words.
- "Bites" is the third person singular form of the verb "bite", which comes from the Old English word "bītan". It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as German "beißen" and Dutch "bijten".
- "At" is a preposition that is derived from the Old English word "æt". It has Indo-European origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic and Romance languages, such as German "an" and French "à".
When combined, the phrase "bites at" usually refers to an action of one entity biting another in an aggressive or confrontational manner.
