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

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 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

There is keen interest in whether Kim might use the congress to soften this stance, or double down.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Simply glance at it, you grovel Hand and foot in Belial's gripe: If I double down its pages At the woful sixteenth print, When he gathers his greengages, Ope a sieve and slip it in't?

From An Introduction to the Study of Robert Browning's Poetry by Corson, Hiram