Pens: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used for general writing purposes in everyday situations, such as taking notes, writing letters, and doing homework.

• I need to buy some new pens for school.
• She always carries a few pens in her bag.

A general term that can describe any tool used for writing, including pens, pencils, and markers. Often used in more formal or academic contexts.

• Selecting the right writing implement is important for calligraphy.
• The artist picked up her preferred writing implement and began to sketch.

Refers to an object or device used to hold pens, usually kept on desks or workspaces to organize writing tools.

• He has a fancy penholder on his desk.
• The penholder was filled with a variety of colorful pens.

An old-fashioned writing instrument made from a feather, typically used in historical or formal contexts. It carries a classic or vintage connotation.

• In the 18th century, writers often used a quill to pen their letters.
• The scribe dipped his quill in ink before starting to write.

Typically used to describe small enclosures for animals, especially livestock. It can convey both neutral or positive contexts if the animals are well-kept.

• The farmer kept his chickens in pens behind the barn
• The sheep were herded into their pens for the night

Used to describe the act of surrounding or closing off on all sides. It usually has a neutral or functional connotation.

• The garden was enclosed by a wooden fence
• She decided to enclose the patio with glass walls

Often used to describe the action of restricting someone or something within limits. It can carry a negative implication of forced restriction.

• The patients were confined to their rooms due to the quarantine
• The prisoners were confined to their cells

Commonly used to describe a wire or barred structure for keeping animals or birds. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting restriction or imprisonment.

• The parrot was kept in a small cage
• The lion paced back and forth in its cage at the zoo