Meaning & Definition of word "Abate"

Abate

/əˈbeɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to become less intense or widespread.
    • Example: The storm finally began to abate after several hours of heavy rain.
  • 2. to reduce in amount, degree, or intensity; to diminish.
    • Example: He took medication to abate the pain in his knee.
  • 3. to reduce or eliminate (a nuisance or a threat).
    • Example: Steps were taken to abate the noise from the construction site.
  • 4. to lessen or decrease.
    • Example: 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 of abate

Meaning: To chill out or ease up on something.

Example Sentence: Hey man, why don’t you abate the drama a bit?

Meaning: To cool down a heated situation.

Example Sentence: After the argument, she tried to abate the tension in the room.