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.
The tracks are indicative of hatchlings drawn to lights on the shore. — Adam Van Brimmer, AJC.com, 8 June 2026 In 2024, Itani said only one of their four hatchlings survived. — Christiana Freitag, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026 In some colder regions, hatchlings may even remain in the nest over winter before emerging in spring. — Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

hatchite
hatchling
hatchman
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hatchling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hatchling. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hatchling

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