1 C1 idiomatic informal
To take a defensive position or shelter in preparation for something difficult or threatening.
"With the election results uncertain, the campaign team bunkered up and refused to speak to the press."
inseparable
bunker up
C1 informal inseparable intransitive
To take shelter or prepare defensively, especially in anticipation of a threat or difficult period.
In plain English
To get ready and stay safe somewhere when something bad is coming.
What does "bunker up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To prepare a bunker (a defensive fortified shelter) for occupation.
Actually means
To get ready and stay safe somewhere when something bad is coming.
Usage tip
Rare and informal. Used similarly to 'hunker down' or 'dig in.' May also be used figuratively in workplace or personal contexts to mean adopting a defensive or resistant position.
Words that pair with "bunker up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
storm attack winter crisis threat
How to conjugate "bunker up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bunker up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bunkers up
he/she/it
Past simple
bunkered up
yesterday
Past participle
bunkered up
have + pp
-ing form
bunkering up
continuous
Hear "bunker up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "bunker up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.