What is the meaning of bait?

noun

• Anything that serves as an enticement.
  • synonyms: come-on, hook, lure, sweetener
• Something used to lure fish or other animals into danger so they can be trapped or killed.
  • synonyms: decoy, lure

verb

• Harass with persistent criticism or carping.
  • usage: "The children teased the new teacher"; "Don't ride me so hard over my failure"; "His fellow workers razzed him when he wore a jacket and tie"
  • synonyms: tease, razz, rag, cod, tantalize, tantalise, taunt, twit, rally, ride
• Lure, entice, or entrap with bait.
• Attack with dogs or set dogs upon. .