1. an opening in a ship’s deck or in a floor or roof of a building
Usage: nautical
2. a covered opening providing access between different levels of a structure

Examples

• The sailors climbed down through the hatchway to the cargo hold.
• Emergency supplies were stored below deck, accessible through the main hatchway.
• The old house had a hatchway in the kitchen floor leading to the cellar.
• Workers used the hatchway to move equipment between floors.
• The captain ordered the hatchway to be sealed during the storm.
• A ladder was installed beneath the hatchway for safe passage.