baton

noun ! Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about baton at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

1. A thin tapered rod used by a conductor to lead an orchestra or choir.
2. A short stout club used primarily by policemen.
3. A short staff carried by some officials to symbolize an office or an authority.