batten

1. N-COUNT A batten is a long strip of wood that is attached to something to strengthen it or to hold it firm. (加固其它物躰的)長木板

...a batten to support the base timbers. ...一塊支撐底座木頭的長木板。

2. V-T If something is battened in place, it is made secure by having battens attached across it or by being closed firmly. 釘牢[usu passive]

The roof was never securely battened down. 屋頂從來就沒有用木板釘牢過。

3. V to furnish or strengthen with battens 用條板裝飾或加固

4. V to thrive, esp at the expense of someone else (以他人代價爲前提的)茁壯成長

to batten on the needy