1 B2 idiomatic informal
To save money secretly or gradually, putting it aside for future use
"Over the years she had squirrelled away enough money to put her children through university."
separable
squirrel away
B2 informal separable transitive
To save or store something, especially money or supplies, in a secret or private place for future use
In plain English
To secretly save or hide things (especially money) for later, like a squirrel hiding nuts
What does "squirrel away" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To store or hide objects, food, or supplies in a private place for later use
"He had squirrelled away enough tinned food in his garage to last several months."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Like a squirrel that hides nuts in many secret locations to eat during winter — instinctive, cautious saving for the future
Actually means
To secretly save or hide things (especially money) for later, like a squirrel hiding nuts
Usage tip
Very common in both British and American English. Has a warm, slightly humorous tone. Most often used about saving money, but can apply to food, information, or any resources. The image of a squirrel hoarding nuts for winter is central to understanding the idiom.
Words that pair with "squirrel away"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
money cash savings food documents supplies
How to conjugate "squirrel away"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
squirrel away
I/you/we/they
3rd person
squirrels away
he/she/it
Past simple
squirreled away
yesterday
Past participle
squirreled away
have + pp
-ing form
squirreling away
continuous
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