What does hunker mean?
“Hunker” usually appears in the phrasal verb “hunker down.” Literally, it means to crouch or squat, often to make oneself comfortable, remain in one place, or take cover. In figurative use, it describes settling down with determination to deal with a task, situation, or difficult period. Someone who hunkers down with a book may stay absorbed in reading for hours, while a family might hunker down at home during bad weather. The expression is informal and especially common in American English, though it is also understood in British English. It conveys persistence, concentration, or endurance more strongly than simply “sitting down.” Because “hunker” is less common as a standalone verb, native speakers often use the full phrase “hunker down,” making its meaning immediately recognizable.
verbTo crouch or squat down, especially for comfort or concealment. Figuratively, it means to settle down and focus on a task or situation.
- To settle down in a place, often with determination or for an extended period.
- To crouch or squat down, especially to make oneself smaller or less conspicuous.
"After the storm, we hunkered down by the fire and waited for the roads to clear."
"They hunkered down in the shelter while the wind rushed past."
"If you want to finish the project, hunker down and focus on the first task."
What began as literally crouching low can now mean anything from settling in for the night to throwing yourself wholeheartedly into a demanding task.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hunker come from?
“Hunker” is an English word formed in the period when many verbs were ending in the suffix “-er,” with “hunk” as its base. “Hunk” and related forms such as “hunch” and “hank” belong to a family of Germanic words connected with a lump, chunk, or protrusion. The verb developed the sense of crouching or settling into a low position before extending figuratively to staying in one place or concentrating intently.
Related word forms
How hunker is actually used
Informal in both American and British English. The expression “hunker down” is especially common when describing concentrating hard, working persistently, or staying in one place for a while.