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batten1

Syllabification: (bat·ten)
Pronunciation: /ˈbatn/
Translate batten | into Italian
Definition of batten

noun

  • a long, flat strip of squared wood or metal used to hold something in place or as a fastening against a wall.
  • a strip of wood or metal for securing the edges of a tarpaulin that covers a ship’s hatch.
  • a strip of wood or plastic used to stiffen and extend the leech of a sail.

verb

[with object]
  • strengthen or fasten (something) with battens:Stephen was battening down the shutters

Phrases

batten down the hatches

Nautical secure a ship’s hatch-tarpaulins, especially when rough weather is expected.
prepare for a difficulty or crisis.

Origin:

late 15th century: from Old French batant, present participle (used as a noun) of batre 'to beat', from Latin battuere

batten in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of batten in the British & World English dictionary

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