bate

noun

1. Strife; contention.

2. An alkaline lye which neutralizes the effect of the previous application of lime, and makes hides supple in the process of tanning.

3. A vat which contains this liquid.

verb

1. moderate or restrain; lessen the force of

- He bated his breath when talking about this affair

Definition categories: social, check, contain, control, curb, hold, moderate

2. flap the wings wildly or frantically; used of falcons

Definition categories: motion, beat, flap

3. soak in a special solution to soften and remove chemicals used in previous treatments

- bate hides and skins

Definition categories: change, douse, dowse, drench, soak, sop, souse