bait1 ( P ) Pronunciation Key (bt) n.
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- Food or other lure placed on a hook or in a trap and used in the taking of fish, birds, or other animals.
- Something, such as a worm, used for this purpose.
- An enticement; a temptation.
- Archaic. A stop for food or rest during a trip.
v. bait·ed, bait·ing, baits v. tr.
- To place a lure in (a trap) or on (a fishing hook).
- To entice, especially by trickery or strategy.
- To set dogs upon (a chained animal, for example) for sport.
- To attack or torment, especially with persistent insults, criticism, or ridicule.
- To tease.
- To feed (an animal), especially on a journey.
v. intr. Archaic
- To stop for food or rest during a trip.
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