noun
hatch
A small access opening or its cover.
A small hatch in the ceiling provides access to the attic.
Etymology
The older word names a gate or opening. Hatch specializes it to a small access opening and to the cover that closes it.
More examples
- We lift the hatch to reach the boat's engine.
- The mechanic checks the aircraft's access hatches.
- Firefighters climb through a hatch onto the roof.
Forms
hatch · hatches
Similar words
- trapdoor
- Specifically a hinged door set into a floor or ceiling.
- opening
- Names the gap itself, not a cover that closes it.