hatchling

noun

hatch·​ling ˈhach-liŋ How to pronounce hatchling (audio)
: a recently hatched animal

Examples of hatchling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Watching hatchlings emerge from the sand and make their way toward the ocean is awe-inspiring on its own, but even more meaningful with the resort's on-site naturalist team there to explain the process. Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 12 June 2026 The tracks are indicative of hatchlings drawn to lights on the shore. Adam Van Brimmer, AJC.com, 8 June 2026 There is a turtle nesting project here; the mostly likely time to witness hatchlings being released is between July and October. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026 Braun told these hatchlings that they were too wedded to script, and needed to learn how to let sound tell the story. Literary Hub, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for hatchling

Word History

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hatchling was in 1854

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Cite this Entry

“Hatchling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hatchling. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

hatchling

noun
hatch·​ling ˈhach-liŋ How to pronounce hatchling (audio)
: a recently hatched animal
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