abetting, vbl. n.
(əˈbɛtɪŋ)
[f. abet v. + -ing1.]
The encouragement, promoting, or instigation (usually of anything culpable). Now mostly gerundial.
| c 1374 Chaucer Troylus ii. 356 If I shold assent, Thurgh myn abettyng [v.r. abet], that he thine honour shent. 1629 Sir H. Lynde Via tuta 26 A great abetting to their whole doctrine. 1634 Bp. Sanderson 30 Serm. (1681) II. 292 The abetting, countenancing, or strengthening of any injurious act. 1821 Scott Kenilw. (1867) 96 You suppose my Lord of Leicester capable of abetting, perhaps of giving aim and authority, to the base proceedings. |