abet

[ uh-bet ]

verb (used with object)

, a·bet·ted, a·bet·ting.

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

Derived Forms

• aˈbetment, noun
• aˈbetter, noun

Other Words From

• a·betment a·bettal noun
• una·betted adjective
• una·betting adjective

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

Those who did so used their medical training not to care for patients, but to abet their abuse.

From The Daily Beast

To view these nudes is not quite to abet evil, but it is to undermine decency.

From The Daily Beast

Yet, far from nudging Rajapaksa toward greater accountability, their presence in Sri Lanka is likely only to abet his rise.

From The Daily Beast

He was there to aid and abet when Wade got hot in the fourth quarter.

From The Daily Beast

Our political leaders need to demand that their colleague step down immediately, not aid and abet the barbarian criminal.

From The Daily Beast

Persons procuring, contriving, or consenting, come within the words aid and abet.

From Project Gutenberg

Nature seemed to aid and abet Dinah, who, as Bianchon had predicted, gradually developed a heart-felt passion.

From Project Gutenberg

She that you used to abet in her quarrels with Mrs. Williams, and call out,' At her again, Poll!

From Project Gutenberg

All the better, my dear young lady, that is if you are willing to aid and abet me a little.

From Project Gutenberg

That is why I consent to abet a crime, and keep still about it.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• condone
• incite
• instigate
• provoke