■ noun ( plural batteries )
1》 a container consisting of one or more cells, in which chemical energy is converted into electricity and used as a source of power.
2》 an extensive series or range of things.
3》 Brit. a series of small cages for the intensive rearing of poultry.
4》 Law the infliction of unlawful personal violence on another person, even where the contact does no physical harm.
5》 ( the ~ ) Baseball the pitcher and the catcher.
6》 a fortified emplacement for heavy guns.
↘an artillery subunit of guns, men, and vehicles.
Origin
ME: from OFr. baterie , from battre 'to strike', from L. battuere (in the sense 'metal articles wrought by hammering' later 'a collection of artillery', whence 'Leyden jars connected up so as to discharge simultaneously').