curl up

verb

curled up; curling up; curls up

intransitive verb

: to arrange oneself in or as if in a ball or curl

curl up by the fire

curl up with a good book

Synonyms

• nestle
• snug
• snuggle

Examples of curl up in a Sentence

I love to curl up in a big chair with a book.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Cabin Winter is a time for hibernation, and there’s no better place to curl up than in a mountain cabin with a good book, a journal, and a roaring fire. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 5 Dec. 2024

While cats are generally known for their aloof nature, Pita the orange kitten has gone viral after her owner shared a video of the cat repeatedly curling up around her throat to get comfortable. —Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024

The pricier Plus Luxe has an extra 1.75 inches of foam to add more cushion for the hips and shoulders, which is great for folks who curl up on their sides. —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 2 Dec. 2024

Sullivan practices wellness by curling up in a robe, applying a face mask, and relaxing into a 10-minute meditation session. —Claire Sullivan, WWD, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

curl up

verb

: to arrange oneself in or as if in a curl or ball

curl up with a good book