Hatch/hætʃ/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Biological Process Refers to the natural development of eggs releasing young animals. Turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. Pro Tip 2/3Incubation Period The time taken for eggs to hatch varies among species. Chicken eggs typically hatch in 21 days. Pro Tip 3/3Literal Use Used directly in contexts involving actual eggs and hatching. Birdwatchers observed the eggs as they began to hatch.