Search results for 'battery':

battery noun (batteries) 1 a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy in the form of direct current, eg a car battery, or a dry battery used as a portable energy source in a torch, etc. See also dry cell, electrolytic cell. 2 a number of similar things kept, used, arranged or encountered, etc, especially if the effect is rather threatening or daunting • On the table lay a whole battery of surgical instruments. 3 a a long line of small tiered cages in which hens are kept, arranged so that the eggs they lay run down into wire containers outside the cages; b a similar arrangement of compartments for the intensive rearing of any other animal. 4 law intentional physical attack on a person, including touching the clothes or body in a threatening manner, not necessarily involving damage. See also assault and battery. 5 a a group of heavy guns with their equipment; b the place where they are mounted. 6 a unit of artillery or its personnel.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c: from French batterie, from battre to strike or beat.