bated

[bey-tid]

adjective

1. 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

1. the simple past tense and past participle of bate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bated¹

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

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. 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.

Example Sentences

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.

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

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

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

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"Wisdom seems to pique the interest of people across the world. We wait each year with bated breath for her return."

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Related Words

• delicate 
• dim 
• distant 
• dull 
• far-off 
• gentle 
• hazy 
• inaudible 
• mild 
• muffled www.thesaurus.com
• muted 
• remote 
• slight 
• soft 
• soothing 
• stifled 
• vague 
• weak