The phrase "secures hatches" is commonly used in reference to ship (or submarine) operations where all access hatches must be tightly shut and latched to prevent any water from entering the vessel. The IPA phonetic transcription for this term would be /sɪˈkjʊərz ˈhætʃɪz/. The word "secures" is spelled with a "c" instead of an "s" because it comes from the Latin word "securus" which means "safe" or "secure". The word "hatches" is spelled with two "t"s to distinguish it from "hatches" which means "to produce young".
"Secures hatches" refers to an action or process of fastening or closing hatches in a secure manner, typically on a ship, submarine, or any other vessel or structure that incorporates hatches. A hatch is an opening or a door, often rectangular or square-shaped, that provides access to a compartment, hold, or any enclosed space. These hatches are designed to facilitate entry, exit, or ventilation, but they also need to be properly secured to prevent any unwanted access or escape, water ingress, or damage caused by external factors such as rough sea conditions.
When one "secures hatches," they are ensuring that the hatches are firmly and tightly closed, locked, or dogged down, using appropriate mechanisms, such as latches, bolts, or seals. This process aims to make the hatches resistant to any external forces that may attempt to open them unintentionally or compromise the integrity of the vessel or structure.
Securing hatches is crucial for maintaining the safety, stability, and integrity of the vessel, as well as for protecting the cargo, crew, and any occupants inside. For example, in anticipation of rough weather or during emergency situations, properly securing hatches becomes even more critical to prevent water ingress, maintain buoyancy, and prevent potential hazards.
Overall, securing hatches is an essential practice in maritime and other related industries to ensure the watertight integrity and structural stability of the vessel or structure, enabling safe and efficient operations even in challenging conditions.
The phrase "secures hatches" does not have a specific etymology because it is a combination of two separate words with their own origins.
The word "secure" comes from the Latin word "securus", meaning "free from care" or "safe". It entered Middle English from Old French as "seur" in the 13th century, and eventually evolved into "secure" with its current meaning of "protected" or "not at risk".
On the other hand, "hatches" is derived from the Old English word "hæc", which meant a small door or covering. It also has Old Norse roots as "hǫttr", meaning "hat" or "lid". Over time, "hatches" came to refer specifically to the openings in a ship's deck or hull.