HUNKER Meaning and
Definition
-
Hunker is a verb that refers to assuming a crouched, squatting, or low position, often to seek shelter, to brace oneself, or to wait or endure hardship. This term suggests taking a defensive or protective stance, either physically or metaphorically. It typically involves bending the knees and drawing into a compact position close to the ground.
In its literal sense, hunkering down could involve taking cover, as in hunkering against a wall during a storm to shield oneself from the rain or wind. It can also refer to squatting near a fire for warmth or crouching in a defensive position during a fight or conflict.
Metaphorically, hunker often indicates being prepared for or enduring a difficult or uncomfortable situation. For example, one may hunker down in their study room to focus on studying for an important exam, hunker down in a job during tough economic times, or hunker down and face challenges head-on.
The term 'hunker' is commonly used in colloquial speech, particularly in the United States. It is found in various contexts, from discussing survival skills to describing a determined attitude. Hunkering is often seen as an act of resilience, adaptability, and readiness.
Common Misspellings for HUNKER
Etymology of HUNKER
The word "hunker" likely originates from Scotland, where it was first recorded in the early 18th century. Its etymology is believed to be from the Scots word "hunkers", meaning "haunches" or "buttocks". This Scots term ultimately derives from the Old English word "hunc, huncu", which had the same meaning. Over time, "hunker" came to represent squatting or crouching down, often on one's haunches, and this usage later extended to mean taking a defensive or stubborn stance.
Idioms with the word HUNKER
-
hunker down
The idiom "hunker down" means to settle oneself firmly in a place or position and prepare to stay there, typically during a challenging or difficult situation. It implies getting into a secure or defensive posture, often with the intention of enduring or waiting out a difficult period of time.
-
hunker down to sth
The idiom "hunker down to sth" means to settle in, prepare oneself, or focus on a task or activity with determination and perseverance, especially when facing challenges or difficult circumstances. It implies dedicating time and effort towards a specific goal, often involving concentration and diligence.
-
hunker down (on something)
The idiom "to hunker down (on something)" means to settle in or firmly establish oneself in a particular place or situation for an extended period, often with a sense of determination, perseverance, or preparedness. It can also imply taking a defensive or cautious stance, usually in anticipation of difficulty or hardship.
-
hunker down to something
The idiom "hunker down to something" means to settle in or become fully engaged in a particular task or activity, often implying that one is preparing for a period of focused work or dedication. It suggests devoting one's full attention and effort to accomplish a goal or complete a task, often by adopting a determined or committed mindset.
-
hunker down (on sth)
The idiom "hunker down (on sth)" means to settle in or get comfortable in a particular place or position, usually with the intention of staying put for an extended period of time. It typically implies a preparation for enduring or dealing with a difficult or challenging situation. It can also imply a sense of perseverance, resilience, and determination in facing and overcoming obstacles.
Similar spelling words for HUNKER
Conjugate verb Hunker
CONDITIONAL
I
would hunker
you
would hunker
he/she/it
would hunker
we
would hunker
they
would hunker
CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS
I
would be hunkering
you
would be hunkering
he/she/it
would be hunkering
we
would be hunkering
they
would be hunkering
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have hunker
you
would have hunker
he/she/it
would have hunker
we
would have hunker
they
would have hunker
CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
would have been hunkering
you
would have been hunkering
he/she/it
would have been hunkering
we
would have been hunkering
they
would have been hunkering
FUTURE
I
will hunker
you
will hunker
he/she/it
will hunker
we
will hunker
they
will hunker
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be hunkering
you
will be hunkering
he/she/it
will be hunkering
we
will be hunkering
they
will be hunkering
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have hunkered
you
will have hunkered
he/she/it
will have hunkered
we
will have hunkered
they
will have hunkered
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been hunkering
you
will have been hunkering
he/she/it
will have been hunkering
we
will have been hunkering
they
will have been hunkering
IMPERATIVE
you
hunker
we
let´s hunker
to hunker
PAST
I
hunkered
you
hunkered
he/she/it
hunkered
we
hunkered
they
hunkered
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was hunkering
you
were hunkering
he/she/it
was hunkering
we
were hunkering
they
were hunkering
PAST PARTICIPLE
hunkered
PAST PERFECT
I
had hunkered
you
had hunkered
he/she/it
had hunkered
we
had hunkered
they
had hunkered
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been hunkering
you
had been hunkering
he/she/it
had been hunkering
we
had been hunkering
they
had been hunkering
PRESENT
I
hunker
you
hunker
he/she/it
hunkers
we
hunker
they
hunker
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am hunkering
you
are hunkering
he/she/it
is hunkering
we
are hunkering
they
are hunkering
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
hunkering
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have hunkered
you
have hunkered
he/she/it
has hunkered
we
have hunkered
they
have hunkered
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been hunkering
you
have been hunkering
he/she/it
has been hunkering
we
have been hunkering
they
have been hunkering
I
would have hunkered
we
would have hunkered
you
would have hunkered
he/she/it
would have hunkered
they
would have hunkered
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website: