Nest

Definition

Nest refers to a structure or place made or chosen by a bird for laying eggs and sheltering its young.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɛst/
• Respelling: NEST (with "NEST" as in "best")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɛst/
• Respelling: NEST (similar to American English, with "NEST" as in "best")

In both dialects, "nest" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable. The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "NEST."

Etymology

The term "nest" is derived from the Old English "nest," which is related to the German "Nest" and the Latin "nidus" meaning "a nest".

Derivatives

• Nestling
• Nested
• Nester
• Nestable
• Nestbox

Synonyms

• Roost
• Lair
• Haven

Antonyms

• Expanse
• Open
• Sky

Usage

"Nest" generally refers to a shelter or home, specifically for birds, but it can also extend to other creatures or metaphorically to various contexts.

• The bird has built a nest on that tree branch.
• The boxes were nested inside each other for easy storage.
• That corner of the room became her cozy nest.

Related Terms

• Brood
• Hatch
• Fledge

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Bird's Shelter: A structure or place made or chosen by a bird for laying eggs and sheltering its offspring.‍
• Example: We found a robin's nest in the backyard.

• Home or Shelter: A place of retreat, rest, or lodging.‍
• Example: This little cottage is our summer nest.

• A Set of Objects Fitting One Inside the Other: A set of similar objects of graduated sizes, made to fit inside one another.‍
• Example: A nest of boxes.

Verb

• To Build or Occupy a Nest: When birds or animals establish a nest.‍
• Example: The ducks nest by the lakeside.

• Fit One Inside Another: To fit together or inside one another.‍
• Example: These bowls nest neatly for easy storage.

• To Embed: To fix firmly or securely.‍
• Example: The jewel was nested in a setting of gold.