abate Hear it!

abate definition

abate (ə bāt)

transitive verb abated abat′·ed, abating abat′·ing

  1. to make less in amount, degree, force, etc.
  2. to deduct
  3. Law to put a stop to (a suit or action), end (a nuisance), etc.; terminate

Etymology: ME abaten < OFr abattre, to beat down: see a- & batter

intransitive verb

to become less in amount, degree, force, etc.; diminish

Related Forms:

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