squirrel away
To secretly save or hide things (especially money) for later, like a squirrel hiding nuts
Meanings
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."
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."
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.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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