curl up
Definition
- 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
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shape one's body into a curl
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She curled farther down under the covers
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She fell and drew in
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