go into one's shell

Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word go into one's shell. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word go into one's shell, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say go into one's shell in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word go into one's shell you have here. The definition of the word go into one's shell will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition ofgo into one's shell, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.

English

Etymology

From turtles, who go into their shells to protect themselves.

Pronunciation

  • (file)

Verb

go into one's shell (third-person singular simple present goes into one's shell, present participle going into one's shell, simple past went into one's shell, past participle gone into one's shell)

  1. (idiomatic) To act defensively.
    • 2011 December 7, David Ornstein, “FC Basel 2 - 1 Man Utd”, in BBC Sport:
      Instead of gathering the ball, De Gea poked it away with his foot and Streller was able to place a powerful half-volley into the net.
      United went into their shells and it was not until the 29th minute that they mustered a response - one from which they should have equalised.