1. plural of hatching; the process or result of eggs breaking open to release young animals, especially birds or fish
2. plural of hatching; fine parallel or crossed lines drawn or engraved on a surface, used in drawing or printmaking to create shading or texture
Usage: art and design
3. plural of hatching; a brood of young animals produced at one time

Examples

• The bird sanctuary recorded multiple hatchings of endangered eagle chicks this spring.
• The artist used fine hatchings to add depth and shadow to the portrait.
• Fish hatchings in the aquarium facility help replenish wild populations.
• The engraver's delicate hatchings created a realistic texture on the metal plate.
• Several hatchings of sea turtles emerged from the beach nests in June.