hatching

noun hatch·ing \ ˈha-chiŋ \

|Updated on: 19 Jul 2018

Definition of hatching

: the engraving or drawing of fine lines in close proximity especially to give an effect of shading; also : the pattern so made

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Recent Examples of hatching from the Web

These types of wasps will paralyze a spider using its venom, then lays its eggs on the spider so the hatching larva can eat it and any potential spider eggs.

— brett molina, USA TODAY, "'Fierce weapon': New wasp species with giant stinger discovered in Amazon region, scientists say," 9 July 2018
These types of wasps will paralyze a spider using its venom, then lay eggs on the spider so the hatching larva can eat it and any potential spider eggs.

— brett molina, ajc, "Researchers discover in Amazon region a new wasp species with giant stinger," 9 July 2018
Despite what my five-year-old self thought, the hatching of Sea Monkeys is not a magical process.

— cassie armstrong, OrlandoSentinel.com, "National Sea Monkey Day: How to celebrate in Central Florida," 16 May 2018
The hatching of the pair of eaglets was considered a victory after First Lady was later than normal in laying her eggs in the spring season.

— dana hedgpeth, Washington Post, "Second eaglet hatches in nest at arboretum in Northeast D.C.," 3 May 2018
Our brief, but exciting journey following the breeding, nesting, hatching and fledging by a family of house wrens is about over.

— ernie cowan, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Seven for Seven - all the wren eggs hatch," 19 May 2018
Apple was once said to have an eye on Tesla, before hatching and then abandoning plans to make cars itself.

— The Economist, "As Tesla’s share price falls, it becomes an inviting takeover target," 26 May 2018
During the last four days before their expected hatching, the eggs are transferred to the other incubator, called the hatcher.

— priscella vega, latimes.com, "Threatened shorebirds improve with new incubators and aviary at Huntington wildlife center," 19 Apr. 2018
Turkey populations vary significantly annually based on hatching conditions, with the young birds subject to high mortality during excessive rainy periods as well as drought.

— frank sargeant, AL.com, "Bass in spawning mode on TVA Lakes," 11 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hatching.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of hatching

circa 1650

in the meaning defined above

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