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hunker

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hunker down (on something)

Fig. to squat down on one's heels, a stool, a stone, etc. Jeff hunkered down on the pavement and watched the world go by. He hunkered down to take a rest.

See also: down, hunker

hunker down to something

Fig. to apply oneself to something, to get started working at something. I hunkered down to my chores, hoping to get them done before noon. If you want to get a good grade on that report, you'd better hunker down to it.

See also: down, hunker

hunker down

to stay in a place or situation Members of Congress were hunkered down for weeks of debate on the issue. It had been raining since early morning, a perfect day to hunker down behind the computer and get some work done.

See also: down, hunker

hunker down

v.

1. To sit on the heels with the knees bent forward; squat: My personal trainer hunkered down to help me with the barbells.

2. To take shelter or refuge: The campers hunkered down in the cabin during the blizzard.

3. To hold stubbornly to some position: The candidates hunkered down and refused to admit their mistakes.

4. To apply oneself and start working seriously at something: You need to hunker down and study if you're going to pass that test.

See also: down, hunker