1. thin sticks used by conductors to direct orchestras or bands
Usage: music
2. short sticks carried by police officers as weapons
Usage: law enforcement
3. sticks passed between runners in relay races
Usage: sports

Examples

• The conductor raised his baton to begin the symphony.
• Police officers carried batons on their belts.
• The runner dropped the baton during the relay race.
• The majorettes spun their batons high into the air.
• She practiced twirling her baton for hours each day.
• The orchestra watched the conductor’s baton carefully.
• Security guards were equipped with batons and radios.