baton

• Bâton fin utilisé par un chef d'orchestre, matraque courte d'agent de police, sceptre symbolisant l'autorité, bâton de majorette ou témoin cylindrique passé lors d'une course de relais.

A noun referring to a thin rod used by a conductor, a short club carried by police, a staff symbolizing authority, a twirling rod for a drum major, or a cylinder passed in a relay race.

1. Conductor's stickB1formalart

   A thin, tapered rod used by a conductor to direct an orchestra or choir.

   Baguette de chef d'orchestre

   • The conductor raised his baton to begin the symphony.
   • She tapped the music stand with her baton to get the orchestra's attention.
   • The baton moved gracefully through the air, guiding the musicians.

2. Police clubB1formal

   A short, stout club carried by police officers for self-defense or crowd control.

   matraque

   • The officer used his baton to break up the fight.
   • Police batons are often made of wood or metal.
   • He was struck with a baton during the protest.

   Synonymesbillybilly clubcoshnightsticktruncheon

3. Symbol of authorityB2formal

   A short staff carried by some officials to symbolize their office or authority.

   Bâton d'autorité

   • The marshal carried a ceremonial baton during the parade.
   • The queen's baton was adorned with jewels.
   • The official's baton represented his rank in the organization.

   Synonymesmacerodscepterstaffwand

4. Majorette's propB1informalsport

   A hollow metal rod that is wielded or twirled by a drum major or drum majorette.

   Bâton de majorette

   • The drum major tossed the baton high into the air.
   • She practiced twirling the baton for hours before the competition.
   • The baton sparkled under the stadium lights.

5. Relay race objectA2formalsport

   A hollow cylinder passed from runner to runner in a relay race.

   témoin

   • The runner dropped the baton during the exchange.
   • She passed the baton smoothly to her teammate.
   • The team won the race thanks to a flawless baton handoff.

   Synonymesstick