Egg

Definition

Egg is a noun that refers to the reproductive body produced by female animals, particularly birds, reptiles, and fish, containing an embryo and nutrients within a shell or membrane. It is also a common food source, especially chicken eggs. As a verb, "to egg" means to encourage or provoke someone to take action, often in a playful or teasing manner.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɛɡ/
• Respelling: ehg

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɛɡ/
• Respelling: ehg

Etymology

The word "egg" originates from the Old Norse word "egg," which meant "egg." It replaced the Old English term "æg" after the Norse influence in England. The term has retained a similar meaning across Germanic languages, referring to the reproductive body of birds, fish, and other animals.

Derivatives

• Eggshell (noun)
• Eggnog (noun)
• Egging (verb)
• Egg-shaped (adjective)
• Overegg (verb)

Synonyms

• Ovum
• Seed
• Embryo

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "egg" is commonly used in biological and culinary contexts, such as "She fried an egg for breakfast." As a verb, it means to encourage someone, often to take a daring action, as in "He egged his friend on to try the new ride at the amusement park."

Related Terms

• Incubation: The process of keeping eggs warm to encourage development.
• Embryo: The developing organism inside an egg or womb.
• Hatch: To emerge from an egg.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The reproductive body of birds and other animals, containing an embryo: Refers to a shell-covered structure with nutrients, allowing embryonic development.
  • Example: "The hen laid an egg in the coop."
• A common food source, especially from chickens: Describes eggs used as food in various cultures.
  • Example: "She cracked an egg into the pan."

Verb

• To encourage or urge someone to take action: Implies urging or motivating someone, often in a playful or challenging manner.
  • Example: "They egged him on to participate in the game."