縮ちぢこまる

godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb

curl up; huddle; shrink into oneself

Describes a person or animal drawing their body in tightly, often from cold, fear, or discomfort. Can also be used figuratively for feeling small or intimidated.

• 寒さむくて布ふ団とんの中なかで縮ちぢこまった。

  I curled up in the futon because it was cold.

• 叱しかられて、子こ供どもは隅すみっこで縮ちぢこまっていた。

  Scolded, the child was huddled in the corner.