batten Definition
- 1a long, flat strip of wood or metal used to hold something in place or as a support against pressure
- 2to secure or fasten (something) with battens
- 3to thrive or prosper, especially at the expense of someone else
Using batten: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "batten" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The windows were covered with wooden battens.
Example
The roof was secured with metal battens.
Example
The hatches were battened down for the storm.
Example
The company batten on the profits of their competitors.
batten Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with batten
Example
We need to batten down the hatches before the hurricane hits.
Example
The corrupt officials were battening on the country's resources.
Example
The children battened into the cake and sweets at the party.
Origins of batten
from Middle English 'batent', meaning 'strip of wood'
Summary: batten in Brief
The term 'batten' [ˈbætn] refers to a long, flat strip of wood or metal used to hold something in place or as a support against pressure. It can also mean to secure or fasten something with battens, or to thrive or prosper, especially at the expense of someone else. The phrase 'batten down the hatches' means to prepare for a difficult or dangerous situation.
