Brood: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used when talking about a group of young animals, particularly birds, hatched at the same time. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a family or group of young children.

• The mother hen watched over her brood carefully.
• She struggled to keep her brood of children under control at the park.

Generally refers to the children or young produced by humans, animals, and plants. It is a more formal term and can be used in both scientific and everyday language.

• The lioness protected her offspring from predators.
• Genetic traits are passed from parents to offspring.

A simpler and more general term usually used to describe the young offspring of animals, particularly in everyday speech.

• The lion's young played near the waterhole.
• In spring, many animals give birth to their young.

A formal and somewhat scientific term often used in written contexts to describe descendants or offspring of humans, animals, or plants. It emphasizes continuity and heritage.

• The king's progeny continued to rule the kingdom for centuries.
• The scientist studied the progeny of the genetically modified plants.

Used when someone is deeply thinking or worrying about something, often in a negative or depressed manner.

• He tends to brood over his mistakes
• She was brooding about her future

Used when someone is considering something thoughtfully or reflecting upon it with care. It's often neutral and can be positive.

• She pondered the meaning of the poem
• He pondered whether to accept the job offer

Commonly applied when someone is focusing on something for a long time, often something negative or unpleasant. It emphasizes being stuck in a thought.

• Don't dwell on the past
• She tends to dwell on insignificant details

Refers to the act of engaging in deep thought or concentration, often for the purpose of relaxation or achieving a higher state of awareness.

• He meditates every morning to clear his mind
• She found peace through meditation