BATTERING GUNS. Properly guns whose weight and power fit them for demolishing by direct force the works of the enemy; hence all heavy, as distinguished from field or light, guns come under the term. (See [Siege-artillery] and [Garrison Guns].)
BATTERING RAM. See [Ram].
BATTERING TRAIN. The train of heavy ordnance necessary for a siege, which, since the copious introduction of vertical and other shell fire, is more correctly rendered by the term [siege-train] (which see).
BATTERY. A place whereon cannon, mortars, &c., are or may be mounted for action. It generally has a parapet for the protection of the gunners, and other defences and conveniences according to its importance and objects. (See also [Floating Battery].) Also, a company of artillery. In field-artillery it includes men, guns (usually six in the British service), horses, carriages, &c., complete for service.
BATTLE. An engagement between two fleets, or even single ships, usually called a sea-fight or engagement. The conflict between the forces of two contending armies.
BATTLE LANTERNS (American). See [Fighting-lanterns].
BATTLEMENTS. The vertical notches or openings made in the parapet walls of old castles and fortified buildings, to serve for embrasures to the bowmen, arquebusiers, &c., of former days.
BATTLE-ROYAL. A term derived from cock-fighting, but generally applied to a noisy confused row.
BATTLE THE WATCH, To. To shift as well as we can; to contend with a difficulty. To depend on one's own exertions.
BATTLING-STONE. A large stone with a smooth surface by the side of a stream, on which washers beat their linen.