to hunch:The driver hunkered over the steering wheel.
to hide, hide out, or take shelter (usually fol. by down):The escaped convicts hunkered down in a cave in the mountains.
to hold resolutely or stubbornly to a policy, opinion, etc., when confronted by criticism, opposition, or unfavorable circumstances (usually fol. by down):Though all the evidence was against him, he hunkered down and refused to admit his guilt.
to lumber along; walk or move slowly or aimlessly.
—n.
one's haunches.
Brit. Informal.squatting on one's heels.
suffering a period of poverty, bad luck, or the like.