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

Despite his track record of mediocre offense—he has lifetime .257 batting average with a .674 OPS—his defensive versatility and his positive clubhouse presence have made him attractive as a utility man.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

JJ has become an important part of his team, starting in left field while batting No. 9 in the order.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

That’s not a perfect batting average, but it’s not bad given everything that has gone on.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

With six first-class hundreds, Ahmed is an ideal number eight, meaning England would never have to worry about the tail-end batting as they rotate their seamers.

From BBC • May 11, 2026

“Oh, hello, Jake,” said Mrs. Malvolio, batting her eyes.

From "The Smartest Kid in the Universe" by Chris Grabenstein