1
general::
Bend over suddenly, as in pain or laughter. For example, She doubled up with a cramp. [Late 1800s] 1. Share accommodations meant for one person, as in The hotel ran out of rooms, so we had to double up. [Late 1700s] 2.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): double up (with laughter)
Fig. to laugh so hard that one bends over. • We all just doubled up with laughter. • I doubled up when I heard the punch line., Phrase(s): double up (on someone or something)
[for people] to deal with someone or something in pairs. • We are going to have to double up in this job. • We will double up and get it done., Phrase(s): double up (with someone)
to share with someone. • We don’t have enough books. Tom, will you double up with Jane? • When we get more books, we won’t have to double up anymore., Phrase(s): double up (with pain)
to bend at the waist with severe pain. • The man doubled up with pain when he was stabbed. • He hurt so bad that he doubled up.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs