Origin of Phrases - W
With bated breath
Meaning: Anxiously, with great anticipation.
Example: The trial decision was awaited with bated breath.
Origin: "Bated" is a shortened version of "abated", which means "to slow down". In the case of "bated breath" this would mean to slow down your breathing or hold your breath.
Curiously, people hold their breath when in anticipation.Perhaps so as not to be distracted by breathing.
"Bated" is no longer commonly used, causing people to believe the expression to be "with baited breath". This common misspelling leads to confusion and strange imagery.