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Bated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bated

[ˈbeɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

anxiously waiting

Bated is an adjective derived from the verb 'bate', which means to lessen or diminish. It is often used in the phrase 'bated breath,' signifying a state of anxious anticipation or excitement while waiting for a particular event or outcome.

Synonyms

anxious, eager, suspenseful.

Examples of usage

  • She waited for the test results with bated breath.
  • They listened to the announcement with bated breath.
  • He approached the stage with bated breath, anxious about the performance.
  • The children peered into the dark cave with bated breath, curious about what they would find.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare famously used 'bated breath' in 'The Merchant of Venice', illustrating a character's tension while waiting for a crucial moment.
  • The phrase has evolved in literature to convey suspense and emotional build-up across various genres.

Psychology

  • Experiencing bated breath can trigger physical symptoms like increased heart rate and a feeling of anxiety.
  • It's closely linked to excitement and tension, often experienced during significant life events like waiting for news or a performance.

Pop Culture

  • 'With bated breath' has made its way into songs, movies, and television, showcasing characters in suspenseful situations.
  • In memes and digital communication, it's often used humorously to emphasize over-the-top anticipation for trivial matters.

Everyday Language

  • The phrase is often used in everyday conversations to describe waiting for a message, decision, or outcome with high attention.
  • People often say they are waiting with bated breath for things like exam results or a special event.

Origin of 'bated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bated' comes from the Old English word 'bate', meaning to lessen or reduce, often referring to a reduction in breath.
  • It is commonly used in the phrase 'with bated breath', indicating a state of eager anticipation.

The word 'bated' originates from the Middle English word 'baten', which meant to reduce or lessen. This, in turn, comes from the Old English 'batan', meaning to lessen or diminish. The use of 'bated breath' can be traced back to the late 16th century, most prominently in Shakespeare's works, where it signified a moment of high tension or anticipation. Over time, the phrase 'with bated breath' became idiomatic in English, reflecting a universal feeling of nervous waiting or expectancy. The evolution of the word has seen its meaning narrow down to mainly evoke the sense of anxious anticipation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,697, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.