Synonyms for

Crouch

Verb / kraʊtʃ / Another word for crouch — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To lower your body close to the ground by bending your knees and leaning forward slightly.

Synonyms & similar words

hunkerdown bow bend scrunchup stoop squat scrunch hunker squat bend kneel huddle sneak cower cringe duck stoop scrunch hunker hunch scurry scuttle shrink squinch bunch coil compact compress

Synonyms by register

Formal

stoop bend hunker

Informal

hunker down get down squat

Literary

cower nestle

Antonyms

stand rise straighten erect ascend leap

Common collocations

  • crouch down
  • crouch low
  • crouch behind
  • crouch and spring
  • crouch to hide
  • crouch in fear
  • crouch position

Word family

noun crouch
verb crouch

Usage note

Crouch typically implies bending the knees and hips to lower the body close to the ground, often for concealment or to prepare for a sudden movement. It is generally neutral in register.

Example sentences

  1. The cat likes to crouch before pouncing on its prey.
  2. The baseball player crouched down to catch the ball.
  3. The hunter crouched behind the tree to avoid being seen by the deer.
  4. The thief crouched in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
  5. The soldier crouched in the trench, waiting for the enemy to attack.

Quotes

  • I crouch down and let them feel my hand, and I say, 'Hey, I'm here. It's okay.' - Tony Stewart
  • The most important thing is to stay low and crouch, and to never let your opponent get a good grip on you. - Ronda Rousey
  • I'm not a crier, but I am a crouch-and-hugger. - Leslie Odom Jr.

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