Definition

1. Verb:
   • To gather or cause to gather into a tight group or cluster: This refers to the action of things or people moving close together into a compact mass.
   • To form into a bunch: This describes the process of becoming gathered or clustered.

Usage

• As a transitive verb (bunch something up): To cause something to form a cluster or gather together.
• As an intransitive verb: To come together to form a cluster.

Examples

• Transitive use:
  • She bunched up the fabric to create a decorative effect.
  • He bunched his fists up in anger.
• Intransitive use:
  • The runners bunched up at the starting line.
  • The sheep bunched up for warmth during the storm.

Advanced Usage

• "to bunch oneself up": To curl or tighten one's body into a compact shape.
  • The cat bunched itself up on the cozy chair.

Variants and Related Words

• Bunch (n): A number of things, typically of the same kind, growing or fastened together (e.g., , ).
• Bunch (v): To form or be formed into a tight group or cluster. Often used interchangeably with "bunch up."
  • The flowers bunch nicely in this vase.

Synonyms

• Cluster: To come together in a small, close group.
• Huddle: To crowd together, often for warmth or comfort.
• Congregate: To gather into a crowd or mass.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Bunch together: Very similar in meaning to "bunch up," emphasizing the act of gathering as a group.
  • The students bunched together to hear the announcement.

Related Idioms

• Bunch of fives (British slang, noun phrase): A fist.
  • He threatened him with a bunch of fives. (Note: This idiom uses "bunch" as a noun, not the phrasal verb "bunch up.")

Verb

1. gather or cause to gather into a cluster
   • She bunched her fingers into a fist
2. form into a bunch
   • The frightened children bunched together in the corner of the classroom