Pit.
1. The shaft of a mine. a. Pumping-pit; a shaft in which the pumps and hydraulic machinery work. b. Working-pit; a shaft in which the mineral is hoisted and the supplies and workmen lowered. c. Engine-pit; the shaft in which the engine works.2. (Founding.) A cavity or hollow scooped in the floor to receive cast-metal. 3. A vat in tanning, bleaching, dyeing, or in washing alum earth, etc. 4. A sunken place in which charcoal is piled for burning.