BAIT, n. A preparation that renders the hook more palatable. The best kind is beauty.

Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914?) American writer and journalist

“Bait,” The Cynic’s Word Book (1906)
    (Source)

Included in The Devil's Dictionary (1911). Originally published in the "Devil's Dictionary" column in the San Francisco Wasp (1881-04-23).