hunker Definition
- 1to squat close to the ground or to stay in a particular position, especially in order to avoid detection or to protect oneself from something
- 2to hold on tightly to an idea or a belief, especially in a difficult situation
Using hunker: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hunker" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The soldiers hunkered down behind the wall.
Example
She hunkered over the fire to keep warm.
Example
He hunkered in the corner of the room, trying to avoid being seen.
Example
Despite the criticism, he continued to hunker down on his beliefs.
Example
We need to hunker down and focus on finishing this project.
hunker Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with hunker
Example
We decided to hunker down and wait out the storm.
Example
The family hunkered in the basement during the tornado.
hunker up
to get into a comfortable position, usually by curling up
Example
She hunkered up with a good book and a cup of tea.
Origins of hunker
originated from Scottish Gaelic 'sionc' meaning 'to crouch'
Summary: hunker in Brief
The verb 'hunker' [ˈhʌŋkər] means to squat close to the ground or to hold on tightly to an idea or belief. It is often used to describe taking shelter or avoiding detection, as in 'The soldiers hunkered down behind the wall.' 'Hunker' can also be used in phrases like 'hunker down,' meaning to prepare to stay in a place for a long time, and 'hunker up,' meaning to get into a comfortable position.
