What does HUNKER DOWN mean?

The phrasal verb hunker down has been appearing frequently in news reports, articles, and everyday conversations. If you are looking for its meaning and usage, keep reading to learn how native speakers really use this phrasal. verb.

In this guide, you will understand the definition of hunker down, its main meanings, real-life examples, and how to use it naturally in context.

Hunker Down: Meaning in English

First of all, it is important to know that hunker down originally had a literal meaning: to squat, crouch, or sit close to the ground.

However, in modern English, this phrasal verb is mainly used in a figurative sense.

Today, it usually means:

to stay in a safe and comfortable place, especially for a long period of time

According to the Longman Dictionary:

“to make yourself comfortable in a safe place, especially for a long time.”

In practical terms, hunker down means to shelter, isolate yourself, or stay inside to remain safe.

Common Usage: Staying Safe and Sheltered

One of the most common uses of this phrasal verb appears in situations involving danger, uncertainty, or bad weather.

For example, when a hurricane approaches a city, people often stay inside their homes until the situation improves.

We’ll have to hunker down before the hurricane hits our town.

In recent years, this expression became even more popular during global health crises (COVID 19), when people were advised to remain at home.

People around the world were hunkering down because of the pandemic.

Examples

Here are some natural examples to help you understand how this phrasal verb works in real English:

• People around the world are preparing to hunker down because of the pandemic.
• While hunkering down, I’ve been working on my new book.
• During the sandstorm, they hunkered down in a small hut.
• Before hunkering down, we made sure we had enough food, water, and medical supplies.

These examples show how this phrasal verb is commonly associated with preparation, safety, and isolation.

Other Meanings of “Hunker Down”

Besides the idea of staying safe, hunker down has other important meanings in English.

Let’s explore them.

1. Focusing Intensely on Work or Study

You can use hunker down when you decide to concentrate seriously on a task, project, or responsibility.

In this sense, it means to eliminate distractions and focus completely.

Examples:

No partying this weekend. I need to hunker down and finish my paper.

She hunkered down to prepare for her final exams.

Here, the expression suggests discipline, effort, and determination.

2. Refusing to Change Your Position

Another meaning refers to becoming stubborn or unwilling to compromise.

In this case, it means to stand firm and refuse to give in.

Examples:

Rather than reaching a compromise, both sides continue to hunker down.

He has hunkered down and refuses to change his opinion.

This usage is common in political, professional, and personal contexts.

How to Use “Hunker Down” Naturally

To use it correctly, remember these key ideas:

• It often implies long-term commitment
• It suggests preparation and seriousness
• It is commonly used in challenging situations
• It appears frequently in news, academic, and conversational English

Learning expressions like hunker down helps you sound more natural and confident in English.

Conclusion

Now you know what hunker down means and how to use it in different situations.

This phrasal verb can express:

• Staying safe
• Focusing deeply
• Standing firm

If you want to expand your vocabulary even more, explore reliable online dictionaries and real English corpora. They will help you discover new examples and patterns.

For now, keep practicing, stay curious, and keep learning English every day.

» This blog post was first published in Portuguese on May 5, 2020.