Meanings
From the practice aboard a ship of sealing hatches to prevent water getting below-decks in a storm by using covers secured by strips of material, called battens, firmly attached to the frame of the hatch opening.
How to pronounce "batten down the hatches":
AU
To prepare for trouble.
Example Sentences
1
We could see a storm coming, so we decided to batten down the hatches and stay inside.
2
The captain ordered the crew to batten down the hatches as they approached the rough seas.
3
The forecast called for heavy rain, so I decided to batten down the hatches and protect my garden.
4
As the hurricane approached, the residents of the coastal town batten down the hatches and evacuated to safer areas.
5
The team was losing the game, so the coach told them to batten down the hatches and focus on defense.