Pronunciation

/nes(t)/

Definitions

Noun (n)

1. A structure built by certain animals, especially birds, to hold eggs and young: Birds construct nests from various materials such as twigs, leaves, and grass where they lay their eggs and raise their chicks. Example: “The robin built its nest high up in the tree.”
2. A place resembling a bird’s nest in shape or function: This can be used metaphorically to describe a snug or cozy retreat. Example: “The family had made a little nest of blankets and pillows on the couch.”
3. A home or dwelling: This often refers to a small, comfortable home. Example: “They found a lovely little nest in the suburbs.”
4. A collection of similar things gathered together: This could apply to anything arranged in a heap or cluster. Example: “She kept her jewelry in a nest of boxes on her dresser.”

Verb (v)

To build or settle into a nest: This usage typically applies to animals but can also be used figuratively for humans settling into a new home or environment. Example: “The swallows nested under the eaves of our house every spring.”

Phrases

• “Feather one’s nest”: To accumulate wealth or resources for oneself, often through less-than-honest means.
• “Birds of a feather flock together”: This idiom suggests that people with similar characteristics or interests tend to group together, akin to how birds gather materials to build a shared nest.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “After a long day, she retreated to the comfort of her cozy nest.”
• Verb: “Every year, the couple would return to their summer cottage to nest and enjoy the peace and quiet.”

Synonyms

• Home
• Dwelling
• Abode
• Retreat
• Roost
• Shelter
• Sanctuary
• Heap
• Cluster (for the sense referring to a collection of items)