hole up
The phrase 'hole up' is commonly used in informal contexts to describe taking refuge or hiding, often for an extended period or to avoid danger.
Definition
B2General
(informal)To hide or take refuge in a secluded place, often to avoid danger or detection.
Example
- The fugitives holed up in an abandoned cabin to evade the police.
- During the storm, they holed up in the basement for safety.
B2Animal Behavior
(informal)To stay in a secure place, often a cave or hole, typically for hibernation.
Example
- Bears hole up in caves during the winter months to hibernate.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hole up":
hunker downbunker uphide awayhaul uplair uphold uphide behindhold inbunk downhold the forthold outlay lowcamp outstop upblock upbunk uphutch upshut instick uplock upin the holehold offtuck upbed downhang tightgo undergroundhush upnut uphold overstow awayhang aboutbug upclam upput upcork uptuck awaytake refugehold toheap uprug upstay inhold withplug upput up the shuttershold tight