hunker
Hunker (verb) means to crouch or squat down close to the ground. Example: “They hunkered down behind the wall to avoid the wind.”
How to use hunker
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo crouch low, or to settle in and prepare to wait something out or focus hard on a task.
Word forms
hunkered past tense, hunkers plural, Hunkers plural, hunkers singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They _____ down behind the wall to avoid the wind.
Etymology
Originally Scottish, of uncertain but likely Germanic origin, related to Old Norse huka, "to crouch."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for hunker
See all rhymes for hunker →Frequently asked questions
What does “hunker” mean?
The word “hunker” means to crouch or squat down close to the ground. In plain terms, to crouch low, or to settle in and prepare to wait something out or focus hard on a task.
How do you pronounce “hunker”?
“Hunker” is pronounced HUHNG-kuh (/ˈhʌŋkɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “hunker” in a sentence?
Here is “hunker” used in a sentence: “They hunkered down behind the wall to avoid the wind.”
What part of speech is “hunker”?
“Hunker” is a verb.
Where does the word “hunker” come from?
The word “hunker” comes from Old Norse. Originally Scottish, of uncertain but likely Germanic origin, related to Old Norse huka, "to crouch.".
How many meanings does “hunker” have?
“Hunker” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to crouch or squat down close to the ground.
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