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Google batwing air cleaner and see what you get. Not saying they're right, just that it's a very common perception particularly in the non-Packard universe.
IMHO, misuse of the term began with some unscrupulous sellers who were trying to dupe prospective buyers into thinking that they've got something much rarer than it really is. You see, even twenty years ago, sellers - hoping to skim the cream in the marketplace - were asking $1K for a genuine batwing, which was used ONLY on 2x4 set-ups.
The large, round Rochester air cleaner assembly with an air inlet/scoop on each side, which was intended for use with Rochester single 4-bbl. carbs, was more widely used - 51-56 Olds and Caddy.
(However, I've found some details vary between 55 and 56 versions used on Packard.) As such, it's not that hard to find and can be had for a compartively small fraction of the price for a genuine batwing.
In fact, a brand-new retro version of that air cleaner is now available, which uses a pleated paper element:
http://www.cool-leds.com/olds-air-cleaner.html It's something for those who dislike oil bath to think about - rather than molesting an OE unit. It even provides built-in clearance for an HEI distrbutor.
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