curl up

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Verb:
    • To bend or twist one's body into a curved, coiled, or rounded position, often for comfort, warmth, or protection.
    • To assume a shape that is curved, coiled, or rolled inward.
Usage
  • The verb curl up is used to describe the physical action of making the body compact and rounded. It often implies a state of relaxation, rest, or seeking comfort.
  • It is typically used intransitively (without a direct object).
  • Common contexts include resting, sleeping, reading, or reacting to cold or fear.
Examples
Advanced Usage
  • "curl up with": To assume a curled position while in the company of or using something for comfort.
    • He curled up with his favorite blanket.
  • Figurative Use: Can describe something non-living assuming a curled shape, often due to heat or damage.
    • The edges of the old photograph had curled up over time.
Variants and Related Words
  • Curl (verb): To form or cause to form a curved or spiral shape.
    • Her hair curls naturally in the humidity.
  • Curled (adjective): Having a curled shape.
    • The plant had curled leaves.
Synonyms
  • Coil up: To wind into a series of loops.
  • Huddle: To crowd together; to curl one's body into a small space.
  • Snuggle: To settle or move into a warm, comfortable position.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Curl into: To form a curl while moving into a specific position or place.
    • The child curled into a ball on the floor.
Related Idioms
  • To curl up and die: An informal, hyperbolic expression meaning to be extremely embarrassed or ashamed.
    • When I realized my mistake in the meeting, I just wanted to curl up and die.
Verb
  1. shape one's body into a curl
    • She curled farther down under the covers
    • She fell and drew in

Từ đồng nghĩa