takes cover

Ducks out of sight

Takes cover means to seek protection from danger, typically by hiding behind or beneath something solid.

The phrase comes from military and hunting contexts where one shelters from gunfire or explosions: We took cover behind the wall when the shooting started.

It extends to any situation requiring quick protection: Take cover—there's a tornado warning.

Related

withdrawal · refuge · evade · duck · dugout · emergency exit · safehouse · shelter · avoidance · self-preservation · bombardment · sanctuary · safe house · denial · crouch · ambush · danger zone · camouflage

Opposites
exposure/protection

takes coverexposes oneself

Displays genitals publicly

emerges · stays put

tactical stance

takes coveradvances

Forward movements or progress

stands one's ground · attacks · engages · confronts · counterattacks

Family

take, cover, takes, taken, taking, taker, takers, covers, covered

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG