Hole up

usgb
verb

To stay in one place, usually in hiding, to avoid something or someone.

After the scandal, the politician holed up in his country home, avoiding the media.
Visual representation of "hole up" - To stay in one place, usually in hiding, to avoid something or someone

Often appears as...

  • hole up in a cave
  • hole up in an apartment

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hole up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Avoidance Context

Use 'hole up' when someone avoids others by staying in one place, especially when they're in trouble or need privacy.

Illustration for Avoidance Context
After the heated argument, she holed up in her studio for hours.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Temporary Isolation

'Hole up' often refers to a short-term situation where a person stays away from others for a specific reason.

Illustration for Temporary Isolation
He's holing up at home until he gets over his cold.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Stressful Situations

'Hole up' can imply emotional distress or the need to escape from stress.

Illustration for Stressful Situations
She's been holing up in her room all week, studying for finals.
Visual representation of the word "Hole up"

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