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hunker

|hun/ker|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhʌŋ.kər/

🇬🇧

/ˈhʌŋ.kə/

crouch or settle

Etymology
Etymology Information

'hunker' originates from Scots, specifically the word 'hunkar,' where 'hunk-' meant 'to squat or crouch.'

Historical Evolution

'hunkar' transformed into the modern English word 'hunker' through Scottish influence.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to squat or crouch,' but over time it evolved to include the meaning of 'settling in for a period.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to squat or crouch down low.

The children hunkered down to play in the sand.

Synonyms

crouchsquat

Antonyms

stand

Verb 2

to settle in or dig in for a sustained period.

We hunkered down for the long winter.

Synonyms

settledig in

Antonyms

move

Examples

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Idioms

hunker down

Last updated: 2025/01/14 20:47