bat
bat Lexical Profile
bat Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A predominantly nocturnal flying mammal of the order Chiroptera, distinguished by forelimbs adapted as wings with a continuous leathery membrane.
"As dusk fell, a solitary bat emerged from the cave to hunt for flying insects."
A sturdy, traditionally wooden or metal club used to strike a ball in sports such as baseball and cricket.
"The player tightened his grip on the wooden bat before stepping up to the plate."
• verb
To strike or attempt to strike a ball with a solid club or bat (especially in games like baseball or cricket).
"She batted third in the lineup and managed to hit a double into the outfield."
To flutter or blink rapidly (especially referring to eyes or eyelashes), often to feign innocence or show surprise.
"The witness didn't even bat an eye when the prosecutor presented the surprising evidence."
Word Nuance & Usage
The word functions as a classic homonym representing two entirely distinct historical origins: one for the nocturnal mammal, and another for the wooden sporting club (which also produces the verb form).
• Rhymes for bat
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The animal name derives from Middle English 'bakke', likely of Scandinavian origin. The sporting club and associated verb stem from Old English 'batt' (cudgel), possibly tracing back to Celtic roots.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.