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Word of the Day - Batten
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batten
/ˈbat(ə)n/
noun
1 A long flat strip of squared timber or metal used to hold something in place or as a fastening against a wall.
1.1 A strip of wood or metal for securing a tarpaulin over a ship's hatchway.
1.2 A strip of wood or plastic used to stiffen and hold the leech of a sail out from the mast.
verb
[WITH OBJECT]
Strengthen or fasten (something) with battens.
Phrases
batten down the hatches
Secure a ship's tarpaulins. 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.
