Kite

"Kiting" is a term used to describe the in-game technique to remove a foe from combat by accumulating a burst of enmity and then running around the battlefield. The metaphor here is of a child running around a wide-open field, leading a kite by its string. This technique is used mostly in confined battlefields (BCNMs, etc.) where there are multiple foes; most of the party attacks one target, while the others are kited away.

In general, kiting involves a way to accumulate a quick burst of enmity, and then a way to mitigate damage while leading the target around the battlefield.

...as Paladin
The PLD kite depends on innate enmity-building job abilities and high defense. Paladins can equip a wide variety of enmity+ gear, and can generate additional enmity with the Sentinel job ability. Using a /WAR subjob gives access to Provoke and Defender. A /NIN subjob offers the protection of shadows. For battles over level 70, a PLD/SAM with a two-handed weapon can use Seigan in the same way.

...as Red Mage
The RDM kite uses Bind, Gravity, and Sleep spells to keep a foe occupied, and can use Stoneskin, Phalanx, and Blink to hedge against damage when the control spells wear off. RDM/NIN is a popular job combination for this role, because it adds the protection of Utsusemi, but RDM/BLM offers Elemental Seal to enhance the success of the initial volley of control spells.

...as Bard
The BRD kite is ideal for battles involving a single NM "boss" surrounded by lower-level minions. The Bard uses Horde Lullaby to subdue those minions, and can use abilities from the subjob to reduce or prevent damage.