a thin stick used by a conductor to direct an orchestra or choir, a short stick or tube passed from runner to runner in a relay race, an official staff borne either as a weapon or as an emblem of authority or privilege

pass the baton, take up the baton, carry the baton

Formal and Informal Expressions of baton

In different contexts, you can replace 'baton' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'staff, emblem' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'stick, rod' is a commonplace synonym.

baton: Explore its Definition & Usage

baton Definition

1a thin stick used by a conductor to direct an orchestra or choir
2a short stick or tube passed from runner to runner in a relay race
3an official staff borne either as a weapon or as an emblem of authority or privilege

Using baton: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "baton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The conductor raised his baton and the orchestra began to play.
Example
The relay team passed the baton smoothly from one runner to the next.
Example
The police officer carried a baton as part of his uniform.

baton Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for baton

Phrases with baton

pass the baton
to transfer responsibility or authority from one person to another
Example
The CEO is retiring and will pass the baton to her successor next month.
take up the baton
to take over a task or responsibility from someone else
Example
After the project manager left, I had to take up the baton and lead the team.
carry the baton
to be responsible for a particular task or duty
Example
As the head of marketing, she carries the baton for promoting our products.

Origins of baton

from French 'bâton', meaning 'stick'

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Summary: baton in Brief

A 'baton' [bəˈtɑːn] is a thin stick used by a conductor to direct an orchestra or choir, or a short stick passed from runner to runner in a relay race. It can also refer to an official staff borne as a weapon or emblem of authority or privilege. Phrases like 'pass the baton' and 'take up the baton' are used to denote the transfer of responsibility or authority from one person to another.