Synonyms

bated

American

[bey-tid] / ˈbeɪ tɪd /

adjective

moderated or restrained.

Their solemn faces, their fidgeting, and the bated whispers in which they spoke all told of nerves strained to the breaking point.

verb

the simple past tense and past participle of bate.

idioms

with bated breath, with breath drawn in or held because of anticipation or suspense.

We watched with bated breath as the runners approached the finish line.

Etymology

Origin of bated

First recorded in 1590–1600; bate ¹ ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. ) for the adjective; bate ¹ ( def. ) + -ed ¹ ( def. ) for the verb

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Liverpool fans - and the world of football in general - will be waiting to find out the next installment with bated breath.

From BBC

And of course the supporters, who no doubt waited with bated breath at each stage of the contract renewal talks which eventually resulted in no deal being struck.

From BBC

Outside the Dream Stage tryout room, Jaelyn Jones waits with bated breath.

From Los Angeles Times

“People are waiting with bated breath,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

I think we’re all also waiting with bated breath to see how hard you will go.

From Los Angeles Times

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023