1
general::
Phrase(s): with bated breath
Cliché while holding one’s breath. • We stood there with bated breath while the man hung on the side of the bridge. • They listened with bated breath for the announcement about the winner.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Eagerly or anxiously, as in We waited for the announcement of the winner with bated breath. This expression literally means "holding one's breath" (bate means "restrain"). Today it is Also used somewhat ironically, indicating one is not all that eager or anxious. [Late 1500s] Also see HOLD ONE'S BREATH, def. 2.
American Heritage Idioms