nest

nest · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A structure built by birds, insects, or other animals to hold eggs and shelter young.

  2. 2.

    To build or occupy a nest.

  3. 3.

    A cozy or secluded place of retreat; a comfortable dwelling.

  4. 4.

    To fit objects inside one another.

  5. 5.

    A set of similar objects that fit inside each other.

  6. 6.

    A place where something undesirable breeds or gathers.

Forms

plural: nests

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    nest egg — money saved for the future
  • •
    empty nest — a home where children have grown and left
  • •
    feather one's nest — to enrich oneself, often improperly
  • •
    hornets' nest — a troublesome situation
  • •
    love nest — a secluded place where lovers meet

Related words

See also: bird, egg, home
Synonyms: den, lair, roost

Etymology

From Old English nest, from Proto-Germanic nistaz. Related to Latin nidus ("nest"), which gives us "nidification."