The Bated Breath Effect: Understanding this Enigmatic Idiomatic Expression We weren’t able to create a summary for you. Refresh your page to try again. Literary analysis for the phrase Bated Breath ', with meaning, origin, and examples in literature and sentences. Literary analysis for the phrase Bated Breath ', with meaning, origin, and examples in literature and sentences. Learn the meaning and origin of the idiom 'with bated breath ' and how to use it correctly in English language. Learn the meaning and origin of the idiom 'with bated breath ' and how to use it correctly in English language. Literary analysis for the phrase Bated Breath', with meaning, origin, and examples in literature and sentences. Learn the meaning and origin of the idiom 'with bated breath' and how to use it correctly in English language. Nov 2, 2019 · Discover the meaning of "bated breath," see examples in conversation, and explore alternative expressions to effectively communicate the same idea. This expression literally means "holding one's breath" ( bate means "restrain"). Today it is also used somewhat ironically, indicating one is not all that eager or anxious. Bated breath What's the meaning of the phrase 'Bated breath'? Breathing that is subdued because of some emotion or difficulty. ‘Waiting with bated breath’ is holding your breath in anticipation. Jul 24, 2024 · The phrase means holding one’s breath in anticipation or suspense, often with a mix of anxiety and excitement.