Definitions

1. noun

a narrow opening in a ship’s hull for the loading or unloading of cargo, supplies, or people

“The ship’s crew used the hatch to bring up fresh water from the storage containers below deck.”

2. noun

a covered opening in a roof or ceiling, especially one that can be opened to allow light and air to enter a room

“The hatch in the loft provided natural light and a view of the surrounding countryside.”

3. noun

the act of hatching, especially the emergence of an animal, especially a bird, from its egg

“The excitement of the hatch was palpable as the mother bird watched her eggs crack open.”

4. verb

to emerge or come out of a confined space, especially after being hidden or enclosed

“As the ship hit the iceberg, the hatch burst open, releasing the trapped passengers.”

5. verb

to open or provide an opening in something, especially a roof or ceiling

“The construction crew had to hatch the roof to install the new skylight.”

6. verb

to produce or give rise to something, especially an idea or a plan

“The new policy will hatch a series of new initiatives aimed at increasing employee engagement.”

7. verb

to come out or be born from something, especially an egg or a seed

“The chick will hatch from its egg in a few hours.”