batter
UK: ˈbætə | US: ˈbætər
n. a mixture of flour, liquid, and other ingredients used in cooking
vt. to repeatedly hit or strike something violently
vt. to subject someone to sustained criticism or abuse
The word "batter" originates from the Old French batre (to beat), derived from Latin battuere (to strike). The culinary sense emerged in the 14th century, referring to a mixture "beaten" together. The violent action sense (e.g., "batter a door") retains the original meaning of repeated striking. The suffix "-er" here implies an agent or instrument of the action (e.g., "batter" as one who beats).
She poured the pancake batter onto the hot griddle.
The storm battered the coastal town all night.
The boxer battered his opponent with a series of punches.
Critics battered the film for its poor script.
The chef whisked the batter until it was smooth.