Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbætəri/

Definitions

• noun: A device that stores electrical energy and can release it as electrical power, typically used in portable electronic devices, vehicles, or emergency backup systems.
• noun: A group or series of similar things or people acting together, e.g., a battery of tests or a battery of artillery guns.
• noun (Law): The unlawful physical act of inflicting bodily harm on another person, typically resulting in injury.

Usage Examples

• The phone's battery lasted for hours before needing a recharge.
• The military deployed a battery of cannons on the front lines.
• The accused was charged with battery after an altercation at the bar.

Etymology

The word "battery" comes from the Old French "baterie," which means "a beating" or "a strike." It originally referred to a group of artillery pieces placed together. The electrical meaning developed later in the 19th century when devices for storing and discharging electrical energy were invented, and the word was borrowed due to their parallel function of "striking" or discharging energy.

Synonyms

• Cell (in reference to power storage)
• Accumulator (in reference to energy storage)
• Assault (in legal context)
• Group (in reference to artillery or similar objects)

Antonyms

• Draining
• Exhaustion
• Release (in the context of force or energy)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "battery" generally remains consistent in English, but in some regions, the emphasis may shift slightly. In American English, it is pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable (/ˈbætəri/), while in some British accents, it may have a slightly softer "a" sound. The term also carries regional variations in non-English-speaking countries, as seen in Mandarin Chinese and Arabic, where specific transliterations reflect phonetic differences.

Historical Usage

The word "battery" originally referred to a group of artillery pieces positioned together for a common purpose. It came into use in the late 16th century, derived from the French word "batterie," meaning "to beat." Over time, the term expanded to include electrical devices designed to store and release energy in the late 19th century, coinciding with the advent of the electric power industry.

Cultural Nuances

In modern contexts, "battery" is closely associated with technology, particularly in the context of portable electronics like smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. However, the term also holds strong historical and legal significance, particularly when referring to "battery" as a form of physical assault in legal contexts. The dual meaning of "battery" as both a power source and a form of violence creates interesting cultural nuances in everyday language.

More Information

The battery has evolved significantly from its origins as a military term for groups of artillery pieces. Today, it plays a crucial role in powering modern technology, from the devices in our pockets to the cars we drive. The development of battery technology continues to be a driving force in innovation, with ongoing research focused on increasing energy density, lifespan, and sustainability. In legal terms, battery refers to an unlawful physical act of harm or force, which continues to be a key term in criminal law.