rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryabateLessen or stop
verb

abate

uh-BAYT/əˈbeɪt/

To become less intense or make something less intense or effective.

The wind begins to abate as the storm moves east.

Two connected landscape moments show a storm lessening: dark driving rain gives way to sparse raindrops and lighter sky, tree bends less on the calmer side.
Etymology
aLatinto, toward
+bateLatinto beat

The prefix and verb formed an ancestor meaning “beat down.” That physical lowering extended to reducing power or force, giving the sense of becoming less intense or severe.

In context

Storytime Haven231:08
my fair liege,” said Chandos, “I pray you that you will abate somewhat of your anger.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • Her anger abated after she heard his explanation.
  • The construction noise continued without abating.
  • New barriers help abate traffic noise near the homes.

Forms

abate · abates · abated · abating

Similar words

subside
Usually describes something becoming less intense by itself.
reduce
Broadly means making something smaller in amount or degree.