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Definition of abate


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Definition: (noun) extreme admiration.
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a·bate  audio  (-bt) KEY  

VERB:
a·bat·ed , a·bat·ing , a·bates
VERB:
tr.
  1. To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity; lessen. See Synonyms at decrease.
  2. To deduct from an amount; subtract.
  3. Law
    1. To put an end to.
    2. To make void.
VERB:
intr.
  1. To fall off in degree or intensity; subside.
  2. Law To become void.

ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English abaten, from Old French abattre, to beat down : a-, to (from Latin ad-; see ad- ) + batre, to beat ; see batter 1


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by the Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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