Baited vs. Bated

Baited

Definition

Baited is the past tense of 'bait' and refers to the act of luring or enticing someone or something with food, a lure, or an appeal.

Bated

Definition

Bated is the past tense of 'bate' and means to reduce the force or intensity of something, often used in the phrase 'with bated breath' to indicate suspense or anxiety.

Example

The fisherman baited his hook with a worm to catch more fish.
She baited the trap with cheese to catch the mouse.
The advertisement baited customers with promises of discounts.

Example

We waited with bated breath for the results of the competition.
She spoke in a bated voice, unsure of how her audience would react.
He watched the final seconds of the game with bated breath, hoping for a win.