Abate
mediumNeutral toneuh-BAYT
verb
Definition
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
Memory hook
A-BAIT: The fish stopped biting the bait -- the feeding frenzy abated.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The storm finally began to abate after three days.”
“Her enthusiasm for the project did not abate despite setbacks.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The storm finally began to ______ after three days.”
Show answer
abate
Categories
GRE Tip
Abate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "diminish" or "subside" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "increase".
Related GRE Words
ebb
To gradually decrease or decline; the movement of tide out to sea
subside
To become less intense, violent, or severe
dwindle
To diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength
diminish
To make or become less
flag
(verb) To become tired or less enthusiastic; to decline in vigor
impair
to weaken or damage, especially in function
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