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

Countries may invest in local production if they have oil, gas or coal resources, or double down on renewable energy or nuclear power.

From The Wall Street Journal

Social media has continued to change over the years as companies double down on short videos and AI chatbots.

From Los Angeles Times

“When new bets start to work,” Simo wrote on X this week, “it’s very important to double down on them.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“You have to kind of decide whether to accept gains or double down.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The U.S. and Europe should enhance economic ties to protect themselves mutually against supply-chain vulnerabilities and should double down on our collective technological edge.

From The Wall Street Journal