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hiding

n.
US //ˈhaɪdɪŋ// UK //hˈaɪdɪŋ// hid·ing
  1. 1 state of concealment (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the state of staying out of sight so that people cannot find you.

    the state of being hidden or in concealment. Often used in the phrase 'in hiding'.

    Example

    The famous writer went into hiding after the scandal broke.

    Example

    The political dissident remained in hiding for several months, moving between safe houses to avoid detection by the authorities.

    Usage

    Commonly follows the prepositions 'in' or 'into'.
  2. 2 a physical beating (n.)
    C1 Advanced British English Informal

    a physical punishment where someone is hit many times.

    a severe physical beating or thrashing, typically as a form of corporal punishment.

    Example

    The boy was worried he would get a hiding for breaking the window.

    Example

    In those days, children expected a sound hiding if they were caught stealing apples from the neighbour's orchard.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is primarily British and feels quite old-fashioned or rural; it is rarely used in modern professional contexts.
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  1. 3 a place to hide (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a place where you can stay without being seen.

    a physical location used for concealment.

    Example

    The children found a perfect hiding place behind the old oak tree.

    Example

    The detective discovered a secret hiding spot beneath the floorboards where the stolen documents had been kept.
Etymology 1

See hide (Etymology 1)

Etymology 2

See hide (Etymology 2)

Idioms1 entry

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