'bated' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'abaten,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'baten' meant 'to reduce or lessen.'

'abaten' transformed into the modern English word 'bate,' and eventually became the adjective 'bated' through usage in phrases like 'with bated breath.'

Initially, it meant 'to reduce or lessen,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'restrained or suspenseful.'