bed down
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (phrasal verb): 1. To settle down to sleep, especially in a temporary or makeshift place: The core meaning is to prepare for and go to sleep, often implying the arrangement of bedding in a location that is not one's permanent bed. 2. To provide an animal with a place to sleep: To make a sleeping area for an animal, such as in a stable or barn.
Usage
This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of going to sleep, typically for the night. It often carries a connotation of being outdoors, on a journey, or in a temporary sleeping arrangement. It can be used for both people and animals.
Examples
- For people: "After the long hike, we in our sleeping bags under the stars."
- For people: "The refugees on the floor of the community hall."
- For animals: "The farmer went out to the horses for the night."
Advanced Usage
- Figurative use: It can sometimes be used figuratively to mean to become established or settled in a place.
- Example: "The new company has finally bedded down in its downtown offices."
Variants and Related Words
- Bed (verb): To provide with a bed or place to sleep. (e.g., "The hotel can 200 guests.")
- Bedding (noun): The materials (sheets, blankets, etc.) used on a bed.
Synonyms
- Turn in: (informal) To go to bed.
- Retire: (formal) To go to bed.
- Settle down: (general) To become calm and quiet, often before sleep.
- Bunk down: (informal) Similar to 'bed down', often for temporary sleep.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Bed out: To transfer young plants from a greenhouse into garden beds.
- Example: "It's time to bed out the tomato seedlings."
Related Idioms
- To make one's bed: Literally, to arrange the bedding. Figuratively, used in the idiom "You've made your bed, now you must lie in it," meaning you must accept the consequences of your actions.
Verb
- go to bed
- We bedded down at midnight