double down

double down

1. In blackjack, to double one's wager after seeing one's initial hand of cards, with only one more card allowed to be drawn afterward. Having already lost a massive sum, he decided to double down an already huge bet to try to win back some of his money. I can't believe you actually doubled down and won! Look at all these chips! No, don't double down. Considering the money you've already blown tonight, you're better off walking away from the blackjack table!

2. By extension, to significantly increase or strengthen effort, investment, or resolve toward some goal, strategy, or action so as to maximize the potential yield as a result. The president made clear that he intends to double down the government's involvement in the war overseas. With the market booming, many companies are doubling down their development in mobile apps and games. If you double down this divisive rhetoric, sir, I just worry that you'll alienate more voters.

See also: double, down

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

double down

v.

To double one's original bet after being dealt the first two cards in a game of blackjack: The dealer dealt me a good hand, so I doubled down.

See also: double, down

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.