bated

American  

[bey-tid] / ˈbeɪ tɪd /

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.

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verb

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

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.

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

See Examples For:

bated

So I sent an email and waited with bated breath to see if I had finally found the smoked salmon.

From Salon ● Feb. 28, 2026

He snatched provisional top spot in beautiful, sunny conditions, but could only watch with bated breath as his understudy took to the start hut.

From Barron's ● Feb. 7, 2026

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 ● Sep. 3, 2025

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

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 13, 2025

Harry and Ron waited with bated breath: Malfoy was surely seconds away from telling them it was him — but then — “I wish I knew who it is,” said Malfoy petulantly.

From "Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets" by J. K. Rowling

Related Words

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