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Hatchway - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A hatchway is an opening or doorway in a floor, ceiling, or deck, often fitted with a cover, used for access between levels on ships or buildings.

hatchway

/ˈhætʃˌweɪ/ /ˈhætʃˌweɪ/

Definition:

An opening in a ship's deck or aircraft's floor providing access below.

Synonyms:

hatch, opening, trapdoor, access point

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

closure, seal

Common Collocations:

ship's hatchway, secure hatchway, open hatchway, escape hatchway

Derivatives:

hatchways (plural), hatchwayed (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "hatchway" to describe a covered or uncovered entry point on ships or aircraft; avoid for general doors or windows.

Common Phrases:

batten down the hatchways, through the hatchway, escape through the hatchway

Etymology:

Derived from "hatch" (opening) + "way" (path), first used in nautical contexts in the 17th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The sailors climbed through the narrow hatchway to reach the lower deck.
  • 2. She secured the hatchway before the storm hit to prevent water from entering.
  • 3. The cargo was loaded into the ship via the large rear hatchway.
  • 4. A faint light shone from the open hatchway leading to the basement.

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