1. thin strips of wood or metal used to secure or strengthen something
Usage: construction; nautical

1. to secure or fasten with battens
Usage: nautical; construction
2. to thrive or prosper, especially at others’ expense
Usage: often followed by ‘on’

Examples

• The crew secured the battens over the hatches before the storm.
• Wooden battens were nailed across the shutters.
• The carpenter used metal battens to reinforce the roof.
• They battened down the cargo hold for rough seas.
• The corrupt official battens on bribes from contractors.
• Some companies batten on economic uncertainty.
• Workers battened the loose panels to the wall.
• The parasitic plant battens on its host tree.