The expression you’re looking for is to “hunker down.” To “bunker down” is not actually a thing.
I’ll admit that I’m taking some liberties with my opening. Because “bunkering down” isn’t a real idiom, I’m trying to find the best fit.
As a verb, “bunker” means:
- To hit a ball into an obstacle like a sand trap on the golf course
- To equip or fuel a vessel
As a noun, “bunker” means:
- That golf course obstacle
- A fortification, usually built under the ground
- A large bin, chest or box
The confusion with the idea of endurance probably comes from my second definition of “bunker,” but even if you are in a bunker, you still want to “hunker” down while you’re there. If you’re curious about Dr. Anthony Fauci’s words on the subject, he did indeed say “hunker down” in March of 2020.
As a verb, “hunker” means:
- To crouch, squat, or otherwise stay low
- To apply oneself to a task with serious dedication
- To settle in for a long duration
These are the definitions connected with “hunkering down,” folks. It all makes sense when you get to know the words in question.
Of course, if you’re prone to bunker on the golf course, I suppose hiding there until the embarrassment passes is always another option, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
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