Hatchman

/ˈhætʃ.mæn/ noun

Definition

A person who operates or tends a hatch, such as one who controls access through a hatchway on a ship.

Etymology

Hatch (from Old English hæc) + man (Old English mann). Originally a nautical term for crew members responsible for managing cargo hatches.

Kelly Says

On modern ships, the hatchman's job is crucial for preventing water from entering cargo holds during storms—a single mistake could flood millions of dollars worth of cargo!

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