Definition

Noun: 1. A car body style: A passenger car characterized by a rear door (the hatch) that opens upwards and includes the rear window. This door provides access to a cargo area that is integrated with the passenger compartment, rather than being a separate trunk. 2. The rear door itself: The door assembly on such a vehicle, consisting of the rear window and a hinged panel that lifts open.

Usage

• As a type of vehicle: The term is primarily used to classify and describe a specific category of automobile based on its body design.
  • Example: "We need a practical car for the family, so we're looking at buying a hatchback."
  • Example: "The compact hatchback is easier to park in the city than a large sedan."
• Referring to the door: It can be used to specify the rear opening mechanism of the car.
  • Example: "Please close the hatchback; it's raining."
  • Example: "I loaded the groceries through the hatchback."

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast to other car body styles like "sedan" (which has a separate, enclosed trunk), "SUV" (Sport Utility Vehicle), or "coupe" (typically a two-door car with a fixed roof).
• In automotive reviews and specifications, features are often described in relation to the hatchback design, such as "hatchback cargo capacity" or "hatchback versatility."

Variants and Related Words

• Hatch (noun): A common shortened, informal term for "hatchback," especially when referring to the door.
  • Example: "I'll put your suitcase in the hatch."
• Five-door hatchback: A common specification indicating the car has four side doors plus the rear hatchback door.
• Three-door hatchback: A specification indicating the car has two side doors plus the rear hatchback door.

Synonyms

• Liftback (noun): A very similar car body style, often used interchangeably, though sometimes denoting a more sloping, integrated rear design.
• Shooting brake (noun): A historical term, now sometimes used for high-end or estate-style vehicles with a hatchback.

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Sedan / Saloon (noun): A passenger car with a separate, enclosed trunk compartment (boot).
• Coupe (noun): Typically a two-door car with a fixed roof and a distinct, separated trunk.

Related Phrases / Compound Terms

• Hatchback model: A specific version of a car line that uses the hatchback body style.
  • Example: "The hatchback model offers more cargo space than the sedan."
• Hatchback door: The rear door of such a vehicle.
  • Example: "The hatchback door has a built-in spoiler."

Noun

1. a sloping rear car door that is lifted to open
2. a car having a hatchback door