Hunker: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone sits on their heels with their knees bent, especially to avoid being seen or to stay warm. Often used in survival or war contexts.

• The soldiers hunkered down in the trench to avoid being seen by the enemy.
• We had to hunker down in the cabin during the storm.

Used when someone lowers their body all the way down to their heels without sitting. Often used in exercise contexts or to pick up something from the ground.

• He squatted to pick up the heavy box.
• Squats are great for strengthening your legs and core.

Used when someone bends their knees and lowers their body closer to the ground, typically to avoid being seen or to be ready to move quickly. Commonly in sports, games or stealth situations.

• The cat crouched low, ready to pounce on its prey.
• He crouched behind the bush, waiting for the perfect moment to surprise his friends.

Used when someone places their body on a seat or surface with their back straight. This is a common, everyday action.

• She decided to sit down and take a break after hours of walking.
• Please sit down and make yourself comfortable.

Typically used when someone is lowering their body close to the ground, often in a stable and enduring position for a longer period. It can also imply preparation for a difficult situation or period.

• As the storm approached, they decided to hunker down in their basement.
• The campers hunkered by the fire to stay warm.

Used when someone bends down with their knees bent and their body close to the ground, often for a short period, in order to hide, observe, or prepare to move quickly.

• The cat crouched, ready to pounce on its prey.
• He crouched behind the bushes to avoid being seen.

Refers to a position where someone sits low on their heels with their knees bent, often used in exercise contexts or to describe certain sitting postures.

• She does squats as part of her workout routine.
• The children squatted on the floor around the teacher.

Generally refers to a stance or arrangement adopted to protect oneself or a group from harm, often used in military or sports contexts.

• The soldiers took up a defensive position on the hill.
• In the final minutes of the game, the team switched to a defensive position.