Definition

An opening or passage that leads to a lower area, often accessed by a ladder or stairs.

Example

The crew climbed down through the hatchway to reach the storage area below.

Conversation

Have you seen the hatchway in the old shipwreck?

Yeah, I checked it out last week; it's pretty fascinating!

I heard it leads to some hidden compartments below.

It does! I found some old tools down there; it was like a time capsule.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hatchway → The word is formed from "hatch" (from Old English *hæcc*, meaning a door or opening) and "way" (from Old English *weg*, meaning a path or route). A hatchway refers to an opening or door that provides access to a lower level or compartment, often on a ship or in a building.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'door' ('hatch') that leads to a 'path' ('way') — that's what a hatchway is, an opening that provides access.

Visually Confused Words