Batten down the hatches

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Meaning

To prepare thoroughly for trouble or danger, securing everything tight.

Origin

From 19th-century seafaring, where 'batten'-wooden strips-sealed ship hatches against waves, noted in an 1830s naval log. By 1883, a 'Times' report used it for storm prep.

Variants

  • Batten the hatches
  • Down the hatches

Usage Examples

  • Batten down the hatches; a big storm's coming!
  • She battened down the hatches before the audit hit.
  • We're battening down the hatches for this lawsuit.

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