PhrasesHub

Batten down the hatches

    Definitions

      • Prepare for a difficult or challenging situation
        Usually used as a figurative expression to suggest that one should make necessary preparations and arrangements to face a tough time or obstacle ahead.

      • Secure or fasten something
        Originally used in the context of seafaring, it meant to secure the tarpaulin over a ship's hatch during a storm to prevent water from entering the ship. In modern usage, it can refer to securing any type of object or space.

    Examples of Batten down the hatches

    • The captain ordered the crew to batten down the hatches as a fierce storm approached the ship.

      This idiom is used to describe the act of preparing a ship for rough weather by securing loose objects and closing hatches and doors to prevent water from entering. In this example, the captain is instructing the crew to take necessary precautions to protect the ship from the incoming storm.BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES (verb phrase) - to prepare a ship for rough weather by securing loose objects and closing hatches and doors to prevent water from entering.

    • The store owner battened down the hatches before leaving for the night.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used in a different context. In this case, the store owner is securing the store and closing the doors and windows to protect it from potential theft or damage during the night.BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES (noun phrase) - the act of preparing a ship for rough weather by securing loose objects and closing hatches and doors to prevent water from entering.

    • The captain ordered the crew to carry out batten down the hatches drills on a regular basis.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used as a noun phrase to refer to the process of preparing a ship for rough weather. In this case, the captain is instructing the crew to practice this procedure regularly to ensure they are prepared for any unexpected weather conditions.BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES (adjective phrase) - prepared for rough weather by securing loose objects and closing hatches and doors to prevent water from entering.

    • The ship was batten down the hatches as the storm approached.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used as an adjective phrase to describe the state of the ship. In this case, the ship is being prepared for the incoming storm by securing loose objects and closing hatches and doors to prevent water from entering.BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES (idiomatic expression) - to prepare for difficult or challenging circumstances by taking necessary precautions.

    • The company battened down the hatches in response to the economic downturn.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used more broadly to describe the act of preparing for difficult circumstances. In this case, the company is taking necessary precautions in response to the economic downturn to protect itself from potential negative impacts.


    Conclusion

    Batten down the hatches is a versatile idiom that can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. It is commonly used to advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit. It can also be used to suggest preparing for a difficult or challenging situation, or to secure or fasten something.

    In a more general sense, the idiom implies taking necessary precautions and being prepared for any potential difficulties or challenges that may arise. It can also convey a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

    Origin of "Batten down the hatches"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ships and sailing. The word "batten" refers to narrow strips of wood that were used to secure the tarpaulin over a ship's hatch during a storm. This was done to prevent water from entering the ship and causing damage. The phrase "batten down the hatches" was used as a command to sailors to prepare the ship for a storm.

    Over time, the idiom became more widely used in non-nautical contexts to mean preparing for any kind of difficulty or challenge. It has also evolved to include the idea of securing or fastening something, as opposed to just preparing for a storm. Today, it is a common phrase used to convey the idea of being prepared and taking necessary precautions.