Nest: meaning, definitions and examples

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nest

 

[ nɛst ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

in nature

A structure made by a bird for laying eggs and sheltering its young. Nests are typically made of twigs, grass, and feathers.

Synonyms

bird's nest, roost

Examples of usage

  • The robin built a nest in the tree outside my window.
  • The mother bird carefully lined the nest with soft feathers.
Context #2 | Verb

of birds

To build or settle in a nest. Birds nest in trees, cliffs, or on the ground depending on their species.

Synonyms

breed, build a nest, settle

Examples of usage

  • The swallows nested under the eaves of the barn.
  • During spring, many birds start nesting in preparation for breeding season.

Translations

Translations of the word "nest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ninho

🇮🇳 घोंसला

🇩🇪 Nest

🇮🇩 sarang

🇺🇦 гніздо

🇵🇱 gniazdo

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 nid

🇪🇸 nido

🇹🇷 yuva

🇰🇷 둥지

🇸🇦 عش

🇨🇿 hnízdo

🇸🇰 hniezdo

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 gnezdo

🇮🇸 hreiður

🇰🇿 ұя

🇬🇪 ბუდე

🇦🇿 yuva

🇲🇽 nido

Etymology

The word 'nest' originates from Old English 'nest', meaning 'a place for birds to lay eggs'. The concept of nesting has been observed in various bird species throughout history, as a way to protect their young. Over time, 'nest' has also been used metaphorically to describe a cozy and safe place for humans.

See also: nestle, nestling.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,284 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.