Pronunciation: [bˈe͡ɪts] (IPA) 
The word "baits" may seem like it should be spelled with an "e" before the final "s", but in fact, it follows the common English spelling rule that when a word ends in a consonant followed by the letter "y", the "y" is changed to an "i" before adding a suffix. So in this case, the "y" in "bait" becomes an "i" before adding the plural ending "s". The IPA phonetic transcription for "baits" is /beɪts/.
"Baits" is a plural noun derived from the verb "bait" and refers to different forms of substances or objects used to attract, catch, or lure animals or fish. This term is primarily used in the context of fishing, hunting, or pest control.
When it comes to fishing, baits can be natural or artificial and are used to entice fish to bite onto a hook or lure. Natural baits commonly include live worms, minnows, shrimp, or insects, while artificial baits consist of synthetic materials that mimic the appearance and movement of prey. These could be soft plastic lures, hard-body lures, jigs, spinners, or flies. The specific type of bait chosen may depend on the target species, fishing location, and angler's strategy.
In hunting, baits are used to attract animals to specific areas, increasing the likelihood of a successful hunt. They are often food-based, including grains, fruits, or meat, and placed strategically as bait stations or piles. This technique is commonly employed in bear hunting, deer hunting, or wild boar hunting.
In the context of pest control, baits are used to attract and eliminate unwanted creatures such as rodents, insects, or termites. The baits are typically designed to entice pests to consume a toxic substance, leading to their elimination. These bait formulations can be in the form of granules, gels, blocks, or liquid attractants.
Overall, baits play a significant role in various activities involving the attraction and capture of animals or fish, whether for recreational purposes or the control of specific populations.
The word "baits" is the plural form of the noun "bait". The etymology of "bait" can be traced back to the Old Norse word "beit", meaning "food" or "lure". It later entered Middle English as "beyte", referring to food or a lure for animals used in hunting or fishing. Over time, the spelling evolved to "bait" to match the pronunciation. The term expanded to encompass a broader meaning of any kind of lure or temptation, which has persisted to the present day.
