# cowering

/ˈkaʊɝɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈaʊəɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cowering
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to crouch down low because you are afraid and want to hide or stay safe. You use it when people or animals try to make themselves small in fear.

For teachers: to crouch low and pull back in fear, shame, or submission, as to avoid notice or harm.

## Examples

- The puppy is cowering under the chair.
- When the fireworks start, the dog is cowering in the bathroom with its ears flat.
- The witness described cowering behind a parked car while glass shattered around her during the blast.

## Usage notes

- The verb is intransitive and often takes 'behind', 'under', 'in', or 'against' to show place.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.