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.

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Etymology

Origin of double down

First recorded in 1625–35, in another sense

Example Sentences

Netflix continues to double down on its gaming features, introducing new kid-friendly content.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

The group under its new chief executive officer, Diana Layfield, now intends to double down on its profitable U.K. business and pivot into Europe.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

To compensate for the shortfall, she added, the Pentagon would need to double down on procurement and production.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

Mahmood is expected to double down on her approach in a speech next week.

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026

Sir C. Clifford! we must double down that page.

From The Heiress; a comedy, in five acts by Burgoyne, John