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Broody: meaning, definitions and examples

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broody

 

[ ˈbrudi ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

mood expression

Broody refers to a mood characterized by deep thought or sadness. It can describe someone who is pensive or contemplative, often lost in their own thoughts. A broody person may appear withdrawn and isolated, indicating a desire for solitude or introspection. This term is often used to describe artists, writers, or individuals going through emotional challenges.

Synonyms

contemplative, melancholic, moody, pensive, sullen

Examples of usage

  • She had a broody expression as she gazed out the window.
  • His broody demeanor suggested that something was troubling him.
  • The music had a broody quality that resonated with her feelings.
Context #2 | Adjective

animal behavior

In the context of animals, particularly birds, broody refers to the instinct of a bird to sit on its eggs to keep them warm until they hatch. A broody hen, for example, will often show behaviors such as fluffing her feathers and clucking softly, creating a safe environment for her eggs. This term can also extend to describe female animals that are preparing to raise their young.

Synonyms

incubating, nesting

Examples of usage

  • She has a broody hen sitting on her eggs.
  • Broody ducks often protect their nests fiercely.
  • The farmer noticed the broody behavior of his hen in the coop.

Translations

Translations of the word "broody" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pensativo

🇮🇳 उदास

🇩🇪 nachdenklich

🇮🇩 melankolis

🇺🇦 замислений

🇵🇱 zamyślony

🇯🇵 考え込んでいる

🇫🇷 pensif

🇪🇸 pensativo

🇹🇷 düşünceli

🇰🇷 생각에 잠긴

🇸🇦 مفكر

🇨🇿 zamyslený

🇸🇰 rozmýšľajúci

🇨🇳 沉思的

🇸🇮 razmišljujoč

🇮🇸 hugsa

🇰🇿 ойланған

🇬🇪 აზროვნებადი

🇦🇿 düşüncəli

🇲🇽 pensativo

Word origin

The term 'broody' originated from the Old English word 'brodian', which means to brood or to sit upon eggs. This word was used in reference to the behavior of birds during the nesting period. Over time, the meaning evolved to also encompass a state of deep contemplation or moodiness in humans. The dual usage of the word in both avian and emotional contexts showcases its versatility in the English language. 'Broody' became popular in both literary and conversational forms, often depicting characters who are introspective or emotionally burdened. By the 19th century, it was firmly established in English literature, often used to describe poets or artists grappling with their inner thoughts and feelings. The connection to animal behavior remains prevalent in discussions about poultry farming and animal husbandry.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,304 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.