Abate

medium

uh-BAYT

verb

Definition

To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity

Examples

The storm finally began to abate after three days.
Her enthusiasm for the project did not abate despite setbacks.

Synonyms

Antonyms

increaseintensifyescalateamplify

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".

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