red–bait

verb, often capitalized R \ˈred-ˌbāt\

Definition of RED-BAIT

transitive verb

: to subject (as a person or group) to red-baiting

intransitive verb

: to engage in red-baiting

— red–bait·er noun often capitalized R

1940

Next Word in the Dictionary: red–baitingPrevious Word in the Dictionary: red bagAll Words Near: red-bait

What made you want to look up red-bait? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears