abet

[uh-bet]

verb (used with object)

abetted, abetting 

1. to encourage, support, or countenance by aid or approval, usually in wrongdoing.

   to abet a swindler; to abet a crime.

   Synonyms: promote, assist, aid, help
   Antonyms: discourage, hinder

abet

/ əˈbɛt /

verb

1. (tr) to assist or encourage, esp in crime or wrongdoing

Other Word Forms

• abetment noun
• abettal noun
• unabetted adjective
• unabetting adjective
• abetter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of abet¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English abette (source of Old French abeter, unless the latter, of Germanic origin, is the source of the Middle English), unattested Old English ābǣtan “to hound on,” equivalent to ā- a- ³ + bǣtan “to hunt, chase with dogs, pasture”; bait; akin to bite

Word History and Origins

Origin of abet¹

C14: from Old French abeter to lure on, entice, from beter to bait

Example Sentences

At a trial this summer, the jury found that Geragos aided and abetted Avenatti and ultimately breached his duties as a lawyer, but the panel determined that Franklin was not substantially harmed by Geragos.

From Los Angeles Times

Wiggins also highlighted the role the GOP has played in aiding and abetting the loss of American prestige and power on the world stage.

From Salon

He has taken his “right to do anything I want” to previously unimagined lengths — and the Republican establishment, particularly congressional and state leaders, are aiding and abetting his attacks.

From Salon

Prosperity came fast, abetted by advancing technologies that controlled nature, employed thousands and turned the dreams of some into a reality for many — but not all.

From Los Angeles Times

Ong faces up to two years in jail for abetting a public servant in obtaining gifts, while the maximum jail term he faces for the abetment of obstruction of justice is seven years.

From BBC

Related Words

• condone 
• incite 
• instigate 
• provoke