Bait
/beɪt/noun
Food used to entice fish or other animals to catch them.
Did you know?In medieval hunting rituals, 'bait' was often linked to spells and charms meant to attract game, blending the line between sustenance and sorcery.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰeh₂-
“to strike or hit, suggesting preparation or making ready.”
Old English
Old English
bāt
“to prepare or entice.”
Middle English
Middle English
baiten
“to entice or lure, especially in hunting.”
14th Century
Middle English
bait
“food used to attract animals, especially in fishing.”
Modern English
English
bait
“any substance used to lure or attract, particularly in the context of fishing.”