The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Bias \Bi"as\ (b[imac]"as), n.; pl. Biases (-[e^]z). [F.
   biasis, perh. fr. LL. bifax two-faced; L. bis + facies face.
   See Bi-, and cf. Face.]
   1. A weight on the side of the ball used in the game of
      bowls, or a tendency imparted to the ball, which turns it
      from a straight line.
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            Being ignorant that there is a concealed bias within
            the spheroid, which will . . . swerve away. --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.
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   2. A leaning of the mind; propensity or prepossession toward
      an object or view, not leaving the mind indifferent; bent;
      inclination.
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            Strong love is a bias upon the thoughts. --South.
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            Morality influences men's lives, and gives a bias to
            all their actions.                    --Locke.
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   3. A wedge-shaped piece of cloth taken out of a garment (as
      the waist of a dress) to diminish its circumference.
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   4. A slant; a diagonal; as, to cut cloth on the bias.
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   Syn: Prepossession; prejudice; partiality; inclination. See
        Bent.
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