hunker down

American  

[huhng-ker doun] / ˈhʌŋ kər ˈdaʊn /

verb phrase

1. to crouch or squat on one’s heels.

   Some of the taller kids have trouble with the exercises that involve a lot of hunkering down.

2. 1. to hide, hide out, or take shelter, often for just a few hours or less, as from a pursuer or a storm.

      Runaways hunkered down in all sorts of places along the Underground Railroad.

      Rain pelted our boat through the night, but we were able to hunker down in a small harbor until daybreak.

   2. to settle in to the safety of one’s home or other designated shelter for a potentially prolonged time, as would be necessitated by a natural disaster or an outbreak of a contagious disease.

      Before hunkering down, we made sure we had enough food, water, batteries, and first-aid supplies to last at least three weeks.

      Make a plan, and prepare to hunker down.

3. to hold resolutely or stubbornly to a policy, opinion, etc., when confronted by criticism, opposition, or unfavorable circumstances.

   Rather than moving toward compromise, both sides continue to hunker down.

   He hunkered down and refused to admit his guilt.

4. to give one’s full and earnest attention to a project, assignment, or other obligation.

   No partying for me this weekend—I’ve got to hunker down and finish this term paper.

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Etymology

Origin of hunker down

First recorded in 1720–30; originally Scottish; hunker ( def. ) + down ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Hunker down, because here it comes: Risotto is not that hard.

From Salon • Jul. 2, 2023

Hunker down with a bowl of this flavorful and uber-easy soup recipe that will keep you satisfied on those single-degree days.

From Salon • Dec. 31, 2021

Hunker down and wait for the police to arrive, she said.

From Washington Times • Oct. 2, 2015