# huddle

/ˈhədəɫ/ (US) · /hˈʌdəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/huddle
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to crowd together

verb · CEFR B2

to move close together in a small group, usually because you are cold or afraid.

For teachers: to gather or crowd together in a close, often disorganized mass, typically for warmth or security.

- The hikers had to huddle together under a tree to stay dry during the storm.
- The sheep began to huddle against the stone wall as the temperature dropped and the wind intensified across the moor.

### 2. to curl up

verb · CEFR B2

to sit or lie with your arms and legs pulled close to your body.

For teachers: to draw one's limbs close to the torso, assuming a crouched or foetal position for comfort or protection.

- She huddled under the thick blankets to try and get warm.
- He remained huddled in the corner of the room, refusing to speak to anyone after the accident.

### 3. to discuss privately

verb · CEFR B2 · Informal

to get together in a small group to talk about something privately.

For teachers: to gather in a small, private group for consultation or discussion, often to decide on a strategy.

- The lawyers had to huddle for a few minutes before answering the judge.
- The management team huddled in the hallway to finalize their response before the press conference began.

### 4. a small group

noun · CEFR B2

a small group of people who are standing very close to each other.

For teachers: a small, closely packed group of people or things.

- A small huddle of fans waited outside the stadium for the players.
- A huddle of reporters gathered near the entrance, hoping to catch a glimpse of the prime minister.

### 5. sports meeting

noun · CEFR B2

a quick meeting of players on the field to plan their next move.

For teachers: a brief gathering of players during a break in play to receive instructions or coordinate strategy.

- The quarterback called a huddle to explain the next play to his teammates.
- After the timeout, the team broke from their huddle with renewed energy and executed the play perfectly.

Usage: Commonly used in American football and basketball.

## Examples

- The players formed a quick huddle to discuss the next play.
- The team gathered in a tight huddle on the sidelines to stay warm during the freezing rain.
- In the corner of the room, a small huddle of executives whispered urgently, their body language suggesting a significant shift in the company's direction was imminent.

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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.