   Hunkerin' DownIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "hunkerin' down" means to squat low or settle in and wait something out. While now used nationwide, it carries a strong country and Southern flavor, tied to storm talk and staying put. Hillbilly Dude Says...  When we say 'hunkerin down' it's not always about a storm. Could be any incomin' challenge. Pronunciation[HUNK-er down] Meaning & Usage- To crouch or squat down (verb phrase, literal)
Mae:
Why’s he sittin’ like that?
Earl:
Just hunkered down in the brush.- To settle in and wait something out (verb phrase, figurative)
Mae:
What we gonna do with this storm comin’?
Earl:
Ain’t much to do but hunker down.other spellings: hunkering down ★ In Southern and Appalachian talk, "hunker down" is as much about patience as posture - a way of saying stay put till things pass. ★ OriginFrom Scots and Scotch-Irish dialects, where "hunker" meant to squat. Carried into Appalachian English by settlers, it later spread across the South. The figurative sense - "settle in and wait" - grew strong in the 20th century. NotesStill especially common in the South and Appalachia. National media use it too, but in everyday conversation it’s more at home in rural and Southern speech. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "hunk-er down." Stress on "hunk." | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
Slang and folklore change from place to place - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use →
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content may not be reused without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home