Crouch (krouch; 129), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Crouched (kroucht); p. pr. & vb. n. Crouching.] [OE. cruchen, crouchen, crouken; cf. E. creep, G. krauchen, kriechen, or E. crook to bend, also crouch to cross.]

1.

To bend down; to stoop low; to lie close to the ground with the legs bent, as an animal when waiting for prey, or in fear.

Now crouch like a cur. Beau. & Fl.

2.

To bend servilely; to stoop meanly; to fawn; to cringe.

"A crouching purpose."

Wordsworth.

Must I stand and crouch Under your testy humor? Shak.

 

© Webster 1913.


Crouch, v. t. [OE. cruchen, crouchen, from cruche, crouche, cross. Cf. Crosier, Crook.]

1.

To sign with the cross; to bless.

[Obs.]

Chaucer.

2.

To bend, or cause to bend, as in humility or fear.

She folded her arms across her chest, And crouched her head upon her breast. Colerige.

 

© Webster 1913.

Log in or register to write something here or to contact authors.