bate

Definition

To reduce the force of something; to abate.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English baten (“to abate”), an apheretic form of abaten, from Old French abatre (“to knock down”).

Example Sentences

• "Ah, left ſome Thorn ſhoul'd pierce thy tender Foot, / Or thou ſhoul'dſt fall in flying my purſuit! / To ſharp uneven Ways thy ſteps decline; / Abate thy Speed, and I will bate of mine."
• "[…] and to his dying day he bated his breath a little when he told the story of the stroke with the willow wand."
• "Also about Autumne bate the earth from about the roots of Olives, and lay them bare, but in stead thereof put good mucke thereto."