baited; baiting; baits
Definition of bait
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: to persecute or exasperate with unjust, malicious, or persistent attacks
bait minority groups
: to try to make angry with criticism or insults
baiting a politician during a debate
b
: tease
2a
: to harass (a chained animal, such as a bear) with dogs usually for sport
b
: to attack by biting and tearing
dogs baiting a fox
3a
: to furnish with bait (see bait entry 2)
bait a fishing line bait a trap
4
: to give food and drink to (an animal) especially on the road
archaic
: to stop for food and rest when traveling
bait
nounDefinition of bait (Entry 2 of 2)
1a
: something (such as food) used in luring especially to a hook or trap
using worms for bait
b
: a poisonous material placed where it will be eaten by harmful or objectionable animals
2
: lure, temptation
using bargains as bait for shoppers
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for bait
The first known use of bait was in the 13th century
See more words from the same century