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Huddle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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huddle

[ˈhʌdəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in football

A huddle is a brief gathering of a team to discuss strategy or tactics, usually before a play. It allows players to communicate in secret and plan their next move.

Synonyms

conference, meeting, powwow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
huddle

Used informally to refer to a small group gathering, often for a quick discussion or planning session. It conveys a sense of closeness and urgency.

  • Let's huddle up and discuss the strategy for the game.
  • The team huddled together to quickly review their plan.
conference

Typically used for formal gatherings with a scheduled agenda, often involving professionals or academics. A conference is often a large event spanning multiple days.

  • She is attending an international science conference next week.
  • The annual business conference attracted hundreds of participants.
meeting

A general term used for any planned gathering of people to discuss a topic or make decisions. It can be formal or informal and varies in size.

  • We have a team meeting every Monday morning.
  • The manager called a meeting to address the recent issues.
powwow

An informal and often brief discussion session or meeting, usually among friends or colleagues. The term can also have cultural significance within Native American communities.

  • Let's have a quick powwow to catch up before the presentation.
  • We often have a powwow in the break room after lunch.

Examples of usage

  • The quarterback called the team into a huddle to discuss the next play.
  • They broke the huddle and lined up for the snap.
Context #2 | Verb

in football

To huddle is to come together as a team to discuss strategy or tactics before a play. It is an essential part of communication in team sports.

Synonyms

assemble, confer, gather.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
huddle

Usually used to describe a small group of people closely packed together, often used in sports or informal meetings.

  • The team huddled together to discuss their next move.
  • We huddled around the campfire to keep warm.
confer

Usually involves discussing something important or making a decision, often used in more formal or professional settings.

  • The doctors conferred about the best treatment plan for the patient.
  • The board members conferred before making their final decision.
gather

A general word for bringing things or people together, suitable for both formal and informal situations.

  • The family gathered for a reunion.
  • Please gather all the documents before the presentation.
assemble

Typically refers to bringing people together for a particular purpose, such as a formal meeting or event. It can also refer to putting things together.

  • The teachers assembled in the auditorium for the staff meeting.
  • They assembled the new furniture in the living room.

Examples of usage

  • The players huddled together to decide on the best approach.
  • They huddled up to plan their next move.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In American football, a huddle allows players to quickly discuss their strategy before executing a play.
  • Coaches often use huddles in basketball and soccer to adjust tactics during a game.
  • The huddle emphasizes teamwork, showing how collaboration leads to better performance.

Social Psychology

  • Huddling together can create a sense of safety and belonging among individuals in a group.
  • Humans are naturally drawn to forming groups, as it enhances social bonds and reduces feelings of isolation.
  • The act of huddling can also enhance communication, making it easier to share ideas and feelings.

Cultural Practices

  • In some cultures, people huddle together during rituals or prayers to signify unity in belief.
  • In colder climates, people often physically huddle to share body heat, showcasing survival instincts.
  • Campsites around a fire often see people huddle closer as a way to connect socially and enjoy warmth.

Pop Culture

  • Huddling is commonly depicted in films and TV shows as a moment of strategy before a big game.
  • In popular music, group formations often signify unity and togetherness, with the concept of a huddle celebrated in song lyrics.
  • Huddles are a staple in sports documentaries, highlighting the importance of teamwork and camaraderie.

Origin of 'huddle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'hudlen', which means to hide or crouch together.
  • It likely evolved from the Old English 'hyddl', meaning a shelter or hiding place.
  • The term became popular in sports during the 20th century, particularly in American football, to describe the group formation before a play.

The term 'huddle' originated in American football in the 1890s. It was used to describe the practice of players gathering together to discuss tactics away from the opposing team. Over time, the concept of a huddle has been adopted in various team sports and even in business settings to indicate a brief meeting for discussion and planning.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,848, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.