batting

American  

[bat-ing] / ˈbæt ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or manner of using a bat in a game of ball.

2. cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers in batts or sheets, used as filling for quilts or bedcovers.

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batting British  

/ ˈbætɪŋ /

noun

1. Also called: batt.  cotton or woollen wadding used in quilts, mattresses, etc

2. the action of a person or team that hits with a bat, esp in cricket or baseball

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Etymology

Origin of batting

First recorded in 1605–15; bat ¹ + -ing ¹

Explanation

Batting is the soft, plush material on the inside of a blanket or quilt. When you make a quilt, you sew the front to the back with a layer of batting in between. Batting is sometimes called wadding in the UK. It's usually made of cotton, and it adds thickness and warmth to a blanket. You might see batting used as imitation snow in a department store window, as well. The word comes from the now-obsolete bat, "felted mass of fur or wool," from the idea of "beaten" or "batted" fabric.

Example Sentences

The return of Dani Gibson should balance a team that was short of an all-rounder in last year's 50-over World Cup, while Freya Kemp adds batting power.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

What she wants is an apology, and Mary batting her eyes and offering her heartfelt pardons won’t be enough.

From Salon • Apr. 24, 2026

Pages leads the major leagues with a .370 batting average.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

Rew has gears to his batting, just not as many as Smith.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

“Long live our supper,” Guy said, quickly batting his eyelashes to keep tears from rolling down his face.

From "Krik? Krak!" by Edwidge Danticat