bâtons

Bâtons are elongated, cylindrical objects used across a wide range of contexts. The term refers to simple walking sticks and canes that aid mobility, as well as to rods or staffs used in ceremonial, military, or signaling roles. In everyday life, bâtons may be made of wood, metal, or composite materials and are valued for their rigidity, grip, and weight.

In sport, a baton or bâton is the object passed between relay runners to determine the next leg of the race; in track and field, the transfer must occur within a designated exchange zone. In music, bâtons can refer to percussion sticks or to the baton held by a conductor to guide tempo and expression. In law enforcement and military contexts, a baton is a short club used for signaling, defense, or control.

Historically, bâtons have served as symbols of office or authority, such as ceremonial staffs; they have also functioned as practical tools for walking or hiking. Today, various specialized forms exist, including trekking poles with adaptive grips and collapsible designs for travel, as well as ceremonial batons used in parades and orchestral settings.