batten
0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for batten, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A long, narrow strip of wood or metal used to strengthen, fasten, or hold something in place, especially in construction or on a ship.
We haven't recorded synonyms for batten yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use batten
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
The verb traces to Old Norse batna, "to grow better or recover"; the wood-strip noun is a related but separate sense that developed in English carpentry and shipbuilding.
Full origin of batten →Frequently asked questions
What does “batten” mean?
The word “batten” means a long, narrow strip of wood or metal used to strengthen, fasten, or hold something in place, especially in construction or on a ship. In plain terms, most often seen today in "batten down the hatches" — to prepare firmly for trouble ahead.
How do you pronounce “batten”?
“Batten” is pronounced BATN (/ˈbætən/ in IPA).
How do you use “batten” in a sentence?
Here is “batten” used in a sentence: “They nailed a batten across the fence to stop it sagging.”
What part of speech is “batten”?
Depending on how it is used, “batten” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “batten” come from?
The word “batten” comes from Old Norse. The verb traces to Old Norse batna, "to grow better or recover"; the wood-strip noun is a related but separate sense that developed in English carpentry and shipbuilding.
How many meanings does “batten” have?
“Batten” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a long, narrow strip of wood or metal used to strengthen, fasten, or hold something in place, especially in construction or on a ship.