batten

[bat-n] / ˈbæt n /

VERB

fasten securely

Synonyms

STRONG

fix secure tie tighten

WEAK

board up clamp down cover up nail down

Antonyms

STRONG

let go loose loosen lose unfasten untie

WEAK

unfix

VERB

grow fat

Synonyms

STRONG

burgeon grow prosper thrive wax

WEAK

feed on

Antonyms

STRONG

decline fail lose shrink

WEAK

loosen unfasten unfix

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If the world’s most valuable company disappoints the market, investors really will need to batten down the hatches.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Banks have looked to batten down the hatches in response.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 30, 2025

“If it’s a slower season, we batten the hatches and weather the storm,” Allen told MarketWatch.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 8, 2025

When they are struggling, they batten down the hatches and go all 'Dogs of War'.

From BBC • Sep. 18, 2025

Ma headed out to bring in the other animals and batten down the house.

From "Worth" by A. LaFaye