Bated or baited breath? [[confused]]

[kittyonthebeam]

Please enlighten me.

Okay, at least I have established that a title is no place for funny faces...

I am confused, I have read both type of spellings and I would like some advice. I'm not a native speaker.

'Tis bated. Common mistake though as baited seems to make sense (sort of).

I think I need a coffee, I am clearly not with it today.

Bated from 'abated' maybe, aquavit? I am not sure but could make sense.

Agree that I think it is bated, but can't justify my opinion.....

bated - comes from the Merchant of Venice.

Go to then, you co
Shall I bend low and in a bondman's key,
With bated breath and whisp'ring humbleness,
Say this:
"Fair sir, you spet on me Wednesday last,
You spurn'd me such a day, another time
You call'd me dog; and for these courtesies
I'll lend you thus much moneys"?

I'd need to go and check but I think that there might be something you can do to artillery or something that 'bates' it. But the Shakespeare looks to me as though it s related to 'abated'.

Anyway will look in the OED when I get a chance as I'm curious now!