noun

Batten refers to a thin strip of wood or other material that is used as a fastening or reinforcement, particularly in construction and carpentry. It can also be used to mean a long rod or pole used for support, especially in sailing.

verb

As a verb, "batten" means to secure or fasten something with battens, or to thrive or flourish in a situation, especially in an unhealthy or undesirable way.

Example

noun

1. The roofing tiles were secured with battens to prevent them from slipping during strong winds.
2. The carpenter used battens to reinforce the weak spots in the wall before installing shelves.
3. In sailing, the crew secured the sails with battens to keep them from flapping in the wind.

verb

1. The sailors battened down the hatches in preparation for the approaching hurricane.
2. The farmer battened the livestock into the barn to protect them from the blizzard.
3. The parasite was battening off the host plant, draining its nutrients and compromising its growth.