1) Fattens 1) Grows fat 2) Secures at sea 3) Secures with strips 4) Wooden reinforcing strips 
Thin strips of wood or plastic inserted into batten pockets used to stiffen the leech (to preserve the shape of the sail). 
Strips of wood or other materials used to support a sail or sail area.
Strips of wood or other materials used to support a sail or sail area.
Strips of wood or other materials used to support a sail or sail area.
Thin semi-rigid strips of wood or synthetic material inserted into pockets in the sail in order to maintain the shape of the sail. Interior longitudinal reinforcements in a boat hull. Most often located on either side of the keel, running as far forward as possible. Battens are also used to reinforce the sides of some hulls. 
Flexible strips of wood or plastic, most commonly used in the mainsail to support the