batten
/ˈbætən/
noun
- A long, thin strip of wood or metal used to strengthen or fasten something.
- The stage crew attached the backdrop to a wooden batten.
- The carpenter nailed a batten across the fence to keep it straight.
- We used metal battens to secure the roof tiles during the storm.
verb
- To strengthen or fasten with battens.
- The workers battened the loose boards on the shed.
- We need to batten the fence before winter winds come.
- They battened the hatches before the hurricane arrived.
- To thrive or prosper, especially at the expense of others.
- He battened on the success of his partner's ideas.
- Some companies batten on the misery of others during a crisis.
- The corrupt officials battened on the public funds.
Antonyms