Bate (verb)

1. To reduce or lessen in intensity or force.
2. To restrain oneself from doing something.
3. To flap the wings energetically, as a bird does when preparing to take flight.

Origin:

The word "bate" comes from the old english word "batian" meaning "to beat" or "to strike" and was first used in the 12th century.

Examples:

1. He was able to bate his anger before he said something he would regret.
2. She bated her breath as she waited for the results of the test.
3. The bird bated its wings as it prepared to take flight.
4. He bated his excitement as he opened the present.
5. She bated her enthusiasm as she walked into the meeting.