Nightstick: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is commonly used in American English to refer to a short, heavy, thick club of wood, rubber, plastic, or metal that police officers carry for self-defense or for controlling crowds.

• The officer pulled out his nightstick to subdue the aggressive suspect.
• During the protest, some police officers were seen holding nightsticks.

A baton is a general term for a short, thick stick used by law enforcement officers, but it can also refer to other types of sticks used in various contexts, such as in marching bands or as a symbol of high office. When referring to law enforcement, it is similar to a nightstick but commonly used in both American and British English.

• The band leader waved his baton, signaling the start of the music.
• Police officers often carry a baton as part of their standard equipment.

Commonly used in British English, 'truncheon' is another term for the short, thick stick carried by police officers. It often has an old-fashioned connotation and might be used to evoke a historical context.

• The old British films showed constables carrying truncheons during their patrols.
• During the ceremony, the officer handed over his truncheon as a symbol of the change in command.