curl up

Assume fetal position

To curl up is to draw oneself into a compact position with bent limbs, typically for warmth or comfort: She curled up on the couch with a book.

Cats and other animals curl up instinctively when resting.

The phrase suggests coziness and self-containment.

To curl up and die is to give up completely, often used hyperbolically: When I saw the email, I wanted to curl up and die.

comfort

snuggle

Embrace cozily

cushion · pillow · warmth · soft · plush · nook · armchair · sofa · fireside · cocoon

physical

contract

Enforceable written agreement

  • coilWound circular arrangement
  • tuckFold into concealment
  • hunchUnproven inner sense

crouch · fold · scrunch · draw in · knees · fetal · compact · cringe · recoil · shrink

relax

unwind

Release accumulated tension

  • reposePeaceful stillness or calm
  • loungeComfortable waiting room
  • restCessation of activity

ease · calm · peaceful · tranquil · serene · soothe · leisure · drowsy · sleepy · nap

Categories
Opposites
body position/posture

curl upstretch out

Extend to full length

spread out · lie flat · sprawl · extend · spread-eagle

emotional/behavioral state

curl upstretch out

Extend to full length

open up · come out of one's shell · unfold · spread one's wings · spring into action

physical tension/relaxation state

curl upstand at attention

Formal rigid pose

tense up · stiffen · bolt upright

Family

up, curl, curly, curled, curls, curling, uncurl, curlicue, curlier

Familiarity
Top 10,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G