We need to batten down the hatches before the storm hits.
batten down the hatches
idiomTo prepare for trouble.
Origin
disputed originFrom the practice aboard a ship of sealing hatches to prevent water getting below-decks in a storm by using covers secured by strips of material, called battens, firmly attached to the frame of the hatch opening.
The company is losing money, so the manager told everyone to batten down the hatches and expect budget cuts.
As rumours of layoffs spread through the office, veteran employees who had weathered recessions before knew it was time to batten down the hatches.
Last updated April 17, 2026