hunkering down
Settling in defensively
Hunkering down combines two related ideas: physically crouching or squatting low, and settling in to wait out difficult conditions.
The physical sense—He hunkered down behind the wall—extends naturally to metaphorical use: preparing to endure something challenging by staying put and conserving resources.
We're hunkering down for the storm.
The company hunkered down during the recession.
- shelteringProtecting from elements
- shelter in placeEmergency stay-inside order
- burrowingDigging to create shelter
- crouchingBending low, knees bent
- squattingLow crouch position
bracing · brace yourself · weathering · riding out · digging in · holing up · nesting · battening · fortifying · tucking in · laying low · keeping a low profile · cocooning · staying put · staying home · storm · provisions · emergency supplies
hunkering downstanding tall
Remaining proudly upright
standing up · rising up · stretching out · springing up · getting up
hunkering downfleeing
Rapid escape from danger
running away · taking flight · evacuating · escaping · bolting
hunkering downtaking action
Initiating purposeful effort
branching out · pushing forward · seizing the initiative · taking risks · leaning in
hunker, hunkered, hunkering, hunkers, down, downer, downs, downed, downing