Meanings
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1
noun
a thin stick used by a conductor to direct an orchestra or choir
The conductor raised her baton, and the orchestra fell silent.
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2
noun
a short tube passed from one runner to another in a relay race
He dropped the baton during the final exchange of the relay.
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3
noun
a short, heavy stick carried by a police officer or guard
The officer returned the baton to its holder after the crowd dispersed.
Thesaurus
Etymology
Borrowed from French bâton ("stick, staff"). English retained the broad idea of a carried stick while developing specialized senses in music, relay racing, policing, and ceremonial office.