Ease up (4 letters)

{ Answer }

BATE

{ Related Clues }

Diminish
Lessen
Moderate
Reduce
Restrain
Subtract
Lessen, to the Bard
Lessen or lower
Let up
Caged hawk's tantrum

{ Tags }

bard, bate, caged, diminish, ease, hawks, lessen, let, lower, moderate, reduce, restrain, subtract, tantrum, up

{ Notes }

The answer BATE is uncommon, appearing about once every 375 puzzles.

{ Definition }

BATE as a verb:

1. moderate or restrain; lessen the force of; "He bated his breath when talking about this affair"; "capable of bating his enthusiasm"

2. flap the wings wildly or frantically; used of falcons

3. soak in a special solution to soften and remove chemicals used in previous treatments; "bate hides and skins"