n.
(pl. batteries)
- a container consisting of one or more cells, in which chemical energy is converted into electricity and used as a source of power.
- an extensive series or range of things.
- Brit. a series of small cages for the intensive rearing of poultry.
- Law the infliction of unlawful personal violence on another person, even where the contact does no physical harm.
-
(the battery)
Baseball the pitcher and the catcher.
- a fortified emplacement for heavy guns.
▸an artillery subunit of guns, men, and vehicles.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. baterie, from battre ‘to strike’, from L. battuere (in the sense ‘metal articles wrought by hammering’ later ‘a collection of artillery’, whence ‘Leyden jars connected up so as to discharge simultaneously’).
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