bâton

Noun

baton (plural batons)

1. A staff or truncheon, used for various purposes.
2. A ceremonial staff of a field marshal or a similar high-ranking military office.
3. The stick of a conductor in musical performances.
   • The conductor raised his baton and the orchestra fell silent.
4. An object transferred by runners in a relay race.
   • In the relay race, the runner dropped the baton.
5. A rod twirled in a marching band's performance, in a gymnastic sport, or in juggling.
6. (US) A short stout club used primarily by policemen.
   • The police officer carried a baton for self-defense.

   Synonyms:

   billy club, nightstick, truncheon

See all 11 meanings of baton