Definitions

1. verb

to crouch or huddle, typically in a low position, as for shelter or protection

“She had to hunker down behind the wall to avoid the falling debris.”

2. verb

to resist or endure something difficult or unpleasant

“The team had to hunker down and work through the night to meet the deadline.”

3. noun

a low crouching position, typically for shelter or protection

“The family took up a defensive hunker in the corner of the room.”