abatement

The story

1. Old French · derived fromabatre
2. Anglo-Norman · derived fromabatre“to abate”
3. Middle English · derived fromabatement
4. English todayabatement

From Middle English abatement, from Anglo-Norman abatre (“to abate”) (from Old French abatre), + -ment; equivalent to abate + -ment.

Words from the same roots

First known use, by meaning

• First attested from 1340 to 1470. The act of abating, or the state of being abated; a lessening, diminution, or reduction; a moderation; removal or putting an end to; the suppression.
• First attested around 1150 to 1350. The reduction of the proceeds of a will, when the debts have not yet been satisfied; the reduction of taxes due.
• Late 15ᵗʰ century. An amount abated; that which is taken away by way of reduction; deduction; decrease; a rebate or discount allowed; in particular from a tax.
• Early 17ᵗʰ century. A mark of dishonor on an escutcheon; any figure added to the coat of arms tending to lower the dignity or station of the bearer.