escape hatch

American  

noun

1. a hatch used for emergency escape, as from a submarine or aircraft.

2. a means of avoiding a troublesome situation; a ready or handy way out.

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escape hatch British  

noun

1. a means of escape in an emergency, esp from a submarine

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Etymology

Origin of escape hatch

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

escape hatch

An "escape hatch" built into the side of pots is preventing so-called "bycatch" and allowing young lobsters, fish and other marine life to escape.

From BBC ● Jun. 18, 2026

Finding “cross functional synergies” was, I always thought, the refuge of the insecure, a linguistic escape hatch to avoid responsibility.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 30, 2026

While the mechanics may be complicated, the upshot for savers is clear—anyone worried about declining saving account rates now has an escape hatch.

From Barron's ● Dec. 11, 2025

There’s a reluctance baked into Bravo obsession, like an escape hatch one can use when their favorite shows start to dull — and they always will, even if their quality eventually turns back around.

From Salon ● Dec. 2, 2025

Dad’s eyes dart from the windows to the doors to the ceiling, like an escape hatch might be up there.

From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper

Related Words

• side door