Abet

A·bet

Abet

v. t.

imp. & p. p. Abetted; p. pr. & vb. n. Abetting

  1. To instigate or encourage by aid or countenance; -- used in a bad sense of persons and acts; as, to abet an ill-doer; to abet one in his wicked courses; to abet vice; to abet an insurrection.
    Would not the fool abet the stealth, Who rashly thus exposed his wealth?
  2. To support, uphold, or aid; to maintain; -- in a good sense. [Obs.]
    Our duty is urged, and our confidence abetted.
  3. To contribute, as an assistant or instigator, to the commission of an offense. (Law)

Abet

n.
  1. Act of abetting; aid. [Obs.]