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Roost Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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roost

[ruหst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bird habitat

A place where birds regularly settle or congregate to rest at night, typically high up on a tree or building.

Synonyms

nesting site, perch, resting place.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
roost

Used to describe a place where birds, especially chickens or pigeons, settle for the night. It can also have a colloquial use to refer to settling down for rest.

  • The chickens returned to the roost as the sun set.
  • After a long day, he decided to roost on the couch.
perch

Primarily used to describe a place where birds temporarily rest or sit, such as a tree branch or a ledge. Can also describe a temporary resting place for humans, usually in an elevated position.

  • The eagle found a suitable perch high in the tree.
  • She perched on the edge of the chair, waiting for the meeting to start.
nesting site

Refers to a specific location where birds build nests to lay eggs and raise their young. Typically used in the context of bird conservation and study.

  • The biologists identified multiple new nesting sites in the forest.
  • Protecting nesting sites is crucial for the survival of many bird species.
resting place

Used to describe a spot where someone or something stops to rest. Can also imply a final resting place, such as a grave, giving it a more solemn or grave context in some situations.

  • He found a comfortable resting place under the large oak tree.
  • The cemetery is the final resting place for many local heroes.

Examples of usage

  • The pigeons have found a roost on top of the old church tower.
  • The roost was filled with chirping sparrows as the sun began to set.
Context #2 | Verb

bird behavior

To settle or congregate to rest at night, typically in a group and on a high point.

Synonyms

nest, perch, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
roost

Roost is typically used to describe where birds, especially chickens or other poultry, settle to rest or sleep. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone staying comfortably in a place.

  • The chickens roost in the coop every night
  • He finally found a place to roost after hours of wandering
perch

Perch is used to describe where birds sit or rest, often on a branch or other elevated position. It is also used metaphorically for someone sitting or standing in a high or precarious position.

  • The parrot perched on my shoulder as I walked through the park
  • He perched on the edge of the rooftop, enjoying the view
nest

Nest refers to a structure built by birds or other animals to lay eggs and raise their young. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a cozy or safe place.

  • The robins built a nest in the tree outside our window
  • She created a little nest of blankets on the couch and settled in for the night
settle

Settle can be used to describe making a home or becoming established in a place. It is also used to suggest coming to rest or becoming quiet and comfortable.

  • After traveling for months, they decided to settle in a small village by the sea
  • The kids eventually settled down and fell asleep

Examples of usage

  • The crows roost in the tall trees near the park.
  • As the sun set, the swallows roosted under the eaves of the barn.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Bird Behavior

  • Different species of birds have unique roosting habits; some roost alone while others gather in large groups.
  • Roosting helps birds conserve body heat and provides safety from predators during the night.
  • Some birds, such as starlings, can create spectacular aerial displays when gathering to roost.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the concept of roosting can symbolize safety and community, reflecting the behavior of birds.
  • Folklore often depicts roosting birds as omens or messengers, reflecting their significance in human belief systems.
  • The phrase 'to roost' is often used metaphorically to describe where people settle or establish themselves.

Conservation

  • Roosting sites are critical for the survival of many bird species and are often protected in conservation efforts.
  • Urban environments are adapting to include more roosting spaces for birds as part of coexistence strategies.
  • Loss of natural roosting sites due to deforestation poses a threat to many bird populations.

Literature and Poetry

  • Roosting is a common theme in poetry, often symbolizing peace, home, or a place of rest.
  • Notable writers, like Emily Dickinson, have used imagery of birds roosting to convey deeper emotional or philosophical meanings.
  • Children's literature often features the idea of roosting to teach about safety and community among animals.

Origin of 'roost'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'hrลst', meaning 'to rest'.
  • It is related to the Middle Dutch word 'ruest', also meaning 'rest'.
  • The term has been used in English since the 13th century to describe where birds settle.

The word 'roost' originated from the Old English word 'hrลst', which meant a place where birds rest or settle. Over time, the meaning expanded to include other animals and even humans finding a place to rest or settle for the night. The concept of roosting is common in the animal kingdom, where creatures seek shelter and safety during periods of rest or sleep.

See also: rooster.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,931, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.