Abate

/əˈbeɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to become less intense or widespread.
The storm finally began to abate after several hours of heavy rain.
to reduce in amount, degree, or intensity; to diminish.
He took medication to abate the pain in his knee.
to reduce or eliminate (a nuisance or a threat).
Steps were taken to abate the noise from the construction site.
to lessen or decrease.
The city implemented policies to abate pollution in the waterways.

Etymology

Middle English abaten, from Old French abattre (to fell, demolish), from a- (from) + batre (to beat).

Common Phrases and Expressions

abate the cost
To decrease the price or expenses involved.
abate a complaint
To dismiss or lessen a legal grievance.
abate a tax
To reduce or eliminate a tax obligation.

Related Words

abatement
The reduction or elimination of something, particularly in terms of nuisances or legal matters.
batten
To fasten something securely.
bate
To lessen the force or intensity of something.

Slang Meanings

To chill out or ease up on something.
Hey man, why don’t you abate the drama a bit?
To cool down a heated situation.
After the argument, she tried to abate the tension in the room.