baiting

(noun) harassment especially of a tethered animal.

(verb) harass with persistent criticism or carping. Synonyms: tease, razz, rag, cod, tantalize, tantalise, bait, taunt, twit, rally, ride. Examples: "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."

(verb) lure, entice, or entrap with bait. Synonyms: bait.

(verb) attack with dogs or set dogs upon. Synonyms: bait.