Huddled

To crowd together closely; to curl up, often for warmth, shelter, or protection. This action usually involves multiple individuals or objects pressing against each other in a compact or congested manner. It conveys a sense of closeness, vulnerability, and a shared purpose, whether that purpose is physical protection from the elements, emotional support, or the collective pursuit of an objective. The term implies a gathering that might be spontaneous, reactive, or planned. It speaks to the instinct for connection, safety, and the strength found in numbers. The action of huddling can be a temporary state or a prolonged situation, depending on the surrounding circumstances and the needs of the participants.

Huddled meaning with examples

• Freezing on the exposed mountaintop, the hikers huddled together, sharing a blanket and body heat to stave off hypothermia. The biting wind whipped around them, threatening to snatch away their precious warmth. Each climber pressed as close as possible to the other, seeking the minimal protection offered by their shared human warmth. This moment showed the value of teamwork, which was the only thing separating them from serious injury.
• After the sudden downpour, the small children huddled under the awning of the closed shop, shivering and clinging to their parents. Their colourful coats were drenched and their faces were streaked with tears. The group's fear was visible, and their small frames shook with cold. The unexpected storm had left them stranded. This shared experience brought them closer, creating a feeling of closeness and shared relief when the sun re-emerged.
• Before the pivotal championship game, the team huddled in the locker room, strategizing their final play and supporting each other. Their voices, although hushed, crackled with anticipation. The team coach, a woman who had worked for years, was filled with pride for her team. They touched palms, a tradition the players always followed before hitting the field. The players were confident, yet slightly anxious to get started.
• During the war, families huddled in bomb shelters, seeking refuge from the aerial bombardments overhead. They shared rations, told stories, and offered comfort. The heavy rumble of explosives kept them awake and afraid. The close quarters of their improvised haven became a temporary sanctuary against the devastation. Although the war had brought tragedy, the families had each other and found unity with shared hardships.