abate

Definition of abate

Pronunciation

• (RP)
  IPA: /əˈbeɪt/
  SAMPA: /@"beIt/
• Rhymes: -eɪt

Etymology

From Middle English, from Old French abatre (“to beat down”), from Late Latin abbatto, from ab- (“away”) + batto, from Latin battuere (“to beat”). Cognates: French abattre

Verb

abate (third-person singular simple present abates, present participle abating, simple past and past participle abated)

1. (transitive) To bring down or reduce to a lower state, number, degree or estimation.
   
   Legacies are liable to be abated entirely or in proportion, upon a deficiency of assets.
   
   
2. (intransitive) To diminish in force or intensity.
   
   The pain abates.
   Order restrictions and prohibitions to abate an emergency situation.
   
   
3. (transitive) To deduct or omit.
   
   We will abate this price from the total.
   
   
4. (transitive) To bar or except.
5. (transitive) To bring someone down physically or mentally.
6. (transitive, law) To put an end to; to do away with.
   
   to abate a nuisance
   to abate a writ
   
   
7. (intransitive, law) To be defeated or come to naught.
   
   The writ has abated.
   
   
8. (archaic) To destroy, or level to the ground

Synonyms

• (bring down or reduce): lessen; diminish; contract; moderate; cut short; decrease
• (diminish in force or intensity): diminish; subside; decline
• (bring someone down): humble; depress
• (come to naught): fall through; fail