Definition of the word huddle

The origin of the word "huddle" can be traced back to Middle English, specifically the late 14th century. At that time, the word was spelled "hudlen" and meant "to push or force together." The origin of the word is uncertain, but one possible explanation is that it comes from an Old English word, "huddrian," which meant "to press together." Another theory is that the word may have originated from the Old Norse "hýddla," which meant "to council" or "to consult." This theory suggests that the word's current meaning of "clustering together closely" developed over time as a result of people huddling closer together when consulting or making decisions. Regardless of its exact origins, by the 16th century, the modern spelling and meaning of "huddle" were established, and it was used to describe people or animals clustering together closely, often for warmth or protection. Today, the term is commonly used in sports to describe a group of players huddling together before or during a game to discuss strategy.