high bit

high bit
 n.

   [from high-order bit]

   1. The most significant bit in a byte.

   2. [common] By extension, the most significant part of something other
   than a data byte: "Spare me the whole {saga}, just give me the high
   bit." See also {meta bit}, {dread high-bit disease}, and compare the
   mainstream slang bottom line.
    

high bit

   [high-order bit] The most significant bit in a {byte}.  See
   also {meta bit}, {hobbit}, {dread high bit disease}.

   [{Jargon File}]