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BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES

The idiom "batten down the hatches" means to prepare for a difficult situation or crisis. If someone battens down the hatches, they prepare themselves so that they will be able to survive a coming difficulty or crisis.




EXAMPLES

"Here comes the boss—batten down the hatches everyone!"

"When you're coming down with flu all you can do is batten down the hatches and wait for it to pass"



HISTORY

The idiom "batten down the hatches" originates from nautical practice, where sailors would secure ship hatches during storms by placing canvas covers over them and fastening them down with wooden strips called "battens," essentially preparing for rough weather by sealing off openings to prevent water from flooding in; thus, "batten down the hatches" means to prepare for a difficult situation or impending trouble.