(bāt) v. bat·ed, bat·ing v.t.
1. To lessen the force or intensity of; moderate: to bate one's breath.
2. To deduct; take away.
3. Obs. To depress; decrease.
—v.i.
4. To diminish; become reduced. ◆ Homophone: bait. [Var. of ABATE]

(bāt) noun
A solution of chemicals or manure containing natural or synthetic enzymes: used to soften skins or hides.
—v.t.
1. To soak, as hides.
2. To separate and soften, as jute. ◆ Homophone: bait. [? <ON beita cause to bite. Akin to BAIT and BITE.]

(bāt) v.i. bat·ed, bat·ing
In falconry, to beat or flap the wings, as an impatient hawk: also spelled bait. ◆ Homophone: bait. [<F battre beat <L battuere strike, beat]