Bated breath idiom meaning

English Dictionary.

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Bated breath idiom meaning

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'with bated breath. Send us feedback about these examples. Accessed 6 Mar. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free! See Definitions and Examples ». Cite this Entry Citation Share. Log In. Examples of with bated breath in a Sentence. Articles Related to with bated breath. When old words show up in modern English. Dictionary Entries Near with bated breath.

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At the end of your tether because you are treated as a dogsbody? Falconry and the sea are two rich sources of English expressions. Quirky idioms have embellished everyday English language for centuries, as you will be aware if someone rubbed you up the wrong way recently by jumping the gun out of the blue. When hangry , bants and manspreading made it into the dictionary last month, it was further recognition of the creative new ways we find to communicate. The bird can become short of breath as it flies on the spot, waiting to be released by its handler. A tether is another word for the string tied to a falcon to stop it flying off.

Add to word list Add to word list. I waited with bated breath as the results were read out. Translations of with bated breath. See more. Need a translator? Translator tool. Browse witch. Word of the Day rules are made to be broken.

Bated breath idiom meaning

Why is this a common idiom in American English? And where did it originate? When you are waiting for someone or something eagerly with a lot of expectation, then this phrase can be used. The word bate is an adjective that means being excited or anxious. It refers to a situation where there is a lot of anticipation and nervousness about something that is going to happen. For example, if you have participated in a competition and awaiting the results you will be waiting with bated breath. You are in a state of high excitement and are probably holding your breath as you wait. This is a situation where this idiom or expression can be used. While people may not exactly hold their breath, it indicates a state of excitement.

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The idea being that one couldn't hold one's breath long enough for the unlikely thing to happen. If know you hope Monica comes to the meeting, but don't hold your breath—she hasn't been to one all year.

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