Hunkering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hunkering
[ˈhʌŋkərɪŋ ]
Definition
taking cover
Hunkering refers to the act of crouching down or squatting close to the ground for protection or shelter, often during adverse weather conditions or to evade danger. This word is frequently used in contexts where individuals seek safety or shield themselves from something threatening. Hunkering can also imply a sense of bracing oneself for an upcoming challenge or situation, thus cultivating a state of preparedness. The term conveys a physical and mental posture of engagement, often associated with survival instincts.
Synonyms
crouching, hiding, squatting, taking cover.
Examples of usage
- We hunkered down during the storm.
- The soldiers hunkered behind the wall.
- He was hunkering in a corner, hoping to stay unnoticed.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, the term is often used to evoke scenes of tension or anticipation, where characters may need to hide or prepare for an event.
- Famous authors utilize 'hunkering' to describe survival situations, illustrating the instinct to seek safety.
Cultural Significance
- Hunkering down has taken on a communal meaning in modern contexts, especially during disasters, where people gather and take shelter together.
- The phrase gained popularity during events like extreme weather forecasts, reminding people to prepare and stay low.
Psychology
- Psychologically, hunkering can be linked to feelings of vulnerability; humans instinctively seek protection in stressful situations.
- Crouching or hunkering can have a calming effect, akin to self-soothing behaviors, signaling a retreat from overwhelming environments.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows often depict characters hunkering down in moments of danger, increasing tension and engagement.
- In popular video games, players often hunker down to strategize or avoid detection during stealth missions.
Origin of 'hunkering'
Main points about word origin
- The word has likely roots in the Dutch word 'honk', meaning 'a place of refuge' or 'home', indicating a protective space.
- It first appeared in English literature in the 19th century, especially in contexts relating to wilderness and survival.
The word 'hunker' originates from the Scots word 'hunkers,' which means 'the buttocks' and dates back to the 17th century. The term evolved over time, influenced by various regional dialects, particularly in the northern parts of England and Scotland, where the implications of sitting low or crouching were prevalent in the vernacular. By the 19th century, the term 'hunker down' was popularized, particularly in the context of taking shelter or bracing oneself against difficult circumstances. The phrase gained further prominence during significant historical events and disasters, illustrating humanity's instinct to seek safety and protection. Today, 'hunkering' retains this sense of enduring through hardship, whether it be environmental challenges or social upheavals.