Originally posted by Queen of the Capes:
(abated means stopped, not helped, right? because that would just be wierd. 
) a-bate (-bat)v. a-bat-ed, a-bat-ing, a-bates.v. tr. 1. To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity; lessen. See Synonyms at decrease. 2. To deduct from an amount; subtract. 3. Law. To put an end to. To make void.v. intr. 1. To fall off in degree or intensity; subside. 2. Law. To become void.[Middle English abaten, from Old French abattre, to beat down : a-, to (from Latin ad-. See AD-) + batre, to beat. See BATTER1.]
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Excerpted from American Heritage Talking Dictionary
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