English Reference
noun

battery

n.
US /ˈbætɝi/ UK /bˈætəɹi/ bat·tery UK spelling batteries, battery's

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Computing

    a device that stores electricity to power things like phones, cars, or toys.

    a device consisting of one or more electrochemical cells that convert chemical energy into electrical energy.

    Simple

    My phone is about to die because the battery is at one percent.

    In context

    Modern electric vehicles rely on high-capacity lithium-ion batteries to achieve a range comparable to traditional internal combustion engines.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    a large group of similar things, especially tests or questions.

    a coordinated group or series of similar things, often used in the context of psychological or medical testing.

    Simple

    The doctor ran a battery of tests to find out why I was feeling tired.

    In context

    The candidate underwent a rigorous battery of psychological assessments to determine their suitability for the high-pressure role.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    the crime of hitting or physically hurting another person.

    the unlawful application of physical force to another person, legally distinct from assault which may only involve a threat.

    Simple

    The man was arrested and charged with assault and battery after the fight.

    In context

    The prosecution struggled to prove battery, as the medical evidence did not conclusively show that the physical contact was non-consensual or harmful.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Military

    a group of large guns or cannons used together in the army.

    a unit of artillery weapons, equipment, and personnel organized to function together.

    Simple

    The battery of cannons was positioned on the hill to defend the harbour.

    In context

    The general ordered the battery to cease fire once the enemy's forward positions had been successfully neutralized.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    a set of small cages used to keep many chickens in a small space for their eggs.

    a series of small, connected cages used for intensive poultry farming.

    Simple

    Many people prefer to buy free-range eggs instead of those from battery hens.

    In context

    Animal welfare groups have long campaigned against the use of battery cages, citing the restricted movement and poor conditions for the birds.

    free range
  6. 06 C1 Advanced Technical Music

    the section of a marching band that plays the drums.

    the percussion section of a marching band or drum corps, specifically the instruments carried and played while marching.

    Simple

    The battery practiced their rhythm in the parking lot before the parade started.

    In context

    The judges were particularly impressed by the battery's precision during the complex syncopated movements of the second act.

    drumline

Usage battery life · battery power

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated