double down

American  

[duhb-uhl doun] / ˈdʌb əl ˈdaʊn /

verb

1. Cards. (in blackjack) to double an initial bet, on the condition that one can be dealt only one more card.

   Will you double down and beat the dealer?

2. to increase one’s efforts or hold to a position or opinion, especially when vulnerable or taking a risk.

   He has continued to defend his controversial interpretation of the document, doubling down on what he sees as the truth.

---

Etymology

Origin of double down

First recorded in 1625–35, in another sense

Example Sentences

Mattel on Tuesday said it plans to double down on its strategy to become, as its CEO called it, an “IP-driven play and family entertainment business.”

From Los Angeles Times

There is keen interest in whether he might soften this stance, or double down.

From Barron's

Looking ahead, the company plans to double down on its autonomous vehicle strategy with AV deployments in the U.S. and overseas.

From The Wall Street Journal

Others double down because the myth is more useful to them than the truth.

From Salon

Instead, India appeared to double down - offering Hasina refuge and tightening visa and trade restrictions.

From BBC