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batten (down) "

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    • \ ˈba-tᵊn \

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    [Phrasal verb]  | "batten down" 


    1: to prepare for possible trouble or difficulty

    2: to tie, close, or cover (something) in order to prevent it from moving or becoming damaged

    [Verb]  | "bat*ten" | \ ˈba-tᵊn \


    1: to grow fat

    2: to feed gluttonously

    3: to grow prosperous especially at the expense of another —usually used with on


    Origin: circa 1540 ;

     Probably from Old Norse batna to improve; akin to Old English betera better;

    [Verb]  | "batten" 


    1: to furnish with battens

    2: to fasten with or as if with battens —often used with down

    3: to make one secure by or as if by battens


    Origin: 1663 ;

    [Verb]  | "batten (down)" 


    1: as in lock, bar;




     [ "batten down the hatches" ]

    1: Nautical: secure a boat's hatch-tarpaulins, esp. when rough weather is expected.

      * e.g.,  ... Oh ohh, batten down the hatches, here comes the tax collector. 


     [ "batten down the hatches" ]

    2: Figurative: prepare for a difficult time or crisis, trouble is coming.

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