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batten down

B2 neutral separable both
In simple words

To close everything tight and get ready before something bad happens.

Literal meaning: To fasten wooden strips (battens) over a ship's hatches to prevent water from entering during a storm.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To fasten or secure hatches, windows, or openings to protect against a storm or rough conditions. (Literal, nautical or architectural)

"The crew worked quickly to batten down the hatches as the hurricane approached."

Grammar: separable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To prepare thoroughly for a difficult period, challenge, or crisis. (Figurative)

"With the recession looming, companies are battening down and cutting costs wherever possible."

"It's time to batten down the hatches and get ready for a long fight."

— The Guardian, 2008 (financial crisis coverage)
Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Comes from the nautical phrase 'batten down the hatches.' The full idiom 'batten down the hatches' is far more common than 'batten down' alone. Used both literally (ships, buildings before storms) and figuratively (preparing for crisis).

Commonly used with

hatches shutters windows defences house economy

Forms

Base
batten down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
battens down
he/she/it
Past simple
battened down
yesterday
Past participle
battened down
have + pp
-ing form
battening down
continuous

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