1. n. & v.
--n.
1. a long flat strip of squared timber or metal, esp. used to hold something in place or as a fastening against a wall etc.
2 a strip of wood used for clamping the boards of a door etc.
3 Naut. a strip of wood or metal for securing a tarpaulin over a ship's hatchway.
--v.tr. strengthen or fasten with battens.
Phrases and idioms:
batten down the hatches
1. Naut. secure a ship's tarpaulins.
2 prepare for a difficulty or crisis.
Etymology: OF batant part. of batre beat f. L battuere 2. v.intr. (foll. by on) thrive or prosper at another's expense.
Etymology: ON batna get better f. bati advantage