what does the term batting down the hatches mean
A batten is the piece of wood that is placed into a slot and secures the hatch in place so that it doesn't open inadvertently in the storm. Hence, batten down the hatches literally means to secure the hatches for the upcoming storm. I believe it came from ships going for an ocean voyage the captain would say batten down the hatches. Meaning everything should be tied down to keep anything from falling over board during rough seas. Source(s): I have been a fishermen all my life.