plural batteries
1
: a device that is placed inside a machine (such as a clock, toy, or car) to supply it with electricity
I bought new batteries for the flashlights.
a car battery
battery-powered computers
a dead battery = (Brit) a flat battery [=a battery that has no more electricity]
2
: a usually large group of similar people, things, or ideas that work together, are used together, etc.
a battery of tests
The operation was performed by a battery of doctors.
3
: a group of two or more big guns used by the military
an artillery battery
4
law
: the crime of hitting or touching someone in a way that is meant to cause harm or injury
He was found guilty of battery.
5
baseball
: the pitcher and catcher on a particular team
always used before a noun
British
: relating to or produced by a type of farming in which animals (such as chickens) are kept in small cages
a battery farm
battery chickens versus free-range chickens
Cite this Entry
“Battery.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/battery. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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