abet

[ uh-bet ]

verb (used with object)

, a·bet·ted, a·bet·ting.

1. to encourage, support, or countenance by aid or approval, usually in wrongdoing:

   to abet a swindler; to abet a crime.

   Synonyms: promote, assist, aid, help

   Antonyms: discourage, hinder

abet

/ əˈbɛt /

verb

1. tr to assist or encourage, esp in crime or wrongdoing

Derived Forms

• aˈbetment, noun
• aˈbetter, noun

Other Words From

• a·betment a·bettal noun
• una·betted adjective
• una·betting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of abet¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English abette (source of Old French abeter, unless the latter, of Germanic origin, is the source of the Middle English), unattested Old English ābǣtan “to hound on,” equivalent to ā- a- ³ + bǣtan “to hunt, chase with dogs, pasture”; bait; akin to bite

Word History and Origins

Origin of abet¹

C14: from Old French abeter to lure on, entice, from beter to bait

Example Sentences

Thompson, who is awaiting sentencing, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to conspiracy to aid and abet drug distribution, money laundering, and concealment money laundering of drug trafficking proceeds.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps Trump’s greatest con of all, abetted by the enablers and grifters of the so-called manosphere, has been to sell young men on the idea that he is a manly guy, someone to emulate.

From Salon

The bounty also applied to anyone who “aided and abetted” an abortion.

From Salon

It mandated death or life term for those committing sati or abetting it.

From BBC

The Justice for Harrods Survivors group said the abuse Gibbons had endured from Al Fayed was "yet another horrible example of the monstrous abuse aided and abetted by the businesses he owned".

From BBC

Related Words

• condone
• incite
• instigate
• provoke