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v. a·bat·ed, a·bat·ing, a·bates v.tr. 1. To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity; lessen: a program to abate air pollution. 2. Law a. To put an end to: The court ordered that the nuisance of the wrecked vehicle in the front yard be abated. b. To make void: The judge abated the lawsuit. c. To reduce for some period of time: The town abated the taxes on buildings of historical importance for three years. v.intr. 1. To fall off in degree or intensity; subside: waiting for the rain to abate. See Synonyms at decrease. 2. Law a. To become void. b. To become reduced for a period of time. |
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