IPA: /beɪt/
KK: /bet/
To stop during a journey to eat or rest, especially when traveling.
We decided to bait at the lake for a picnic during our road trip.
Past: baited
Past Participle: baited
Something used to attract animals, especially fish, by being placed on a hook or in a trap.
The fisherman used worms as bait to catch trout.
To attract or lure someone or something, often using a trick or a baited hook, especially in fishing or hunting.
He decided to bait the hook with a worm before casting his line into the water.
Past: bated
Past Participle: bated
The word 'bait' originates from Old French 'baiter', meaning to entice or lure. It refers to the act of luring fish or animals with food or other attractive substances.
Think of 'enticing' or 'luring' something with food — that's what bait does.