Meaning & Definition of word "Henhouse"

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    Henhouse

    /ˈhɛnˌhaʊs/

    noun:

    • 1. A shelter for hens, typically found on a farm, where they can lay eggs and be protected from predators.
      • Example: The farmer built a new henhouse to keep his chickens safe from the cold weather.
    • 2. A structure designed specifically for the accommodation of poultry, primarily hens.
      • Example: Each henhouse on the farm can hold up to fifty birds comfortably.
    • 3. A place where hens can roam freely during the day and return to a secure shelter at night.
      • Example: The hens enjoyed their time in the yard but always returned to the henhouse before sunset.

    Etymology

    The term arises from 'hen', a female chicken, and 'house', a structure for living.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    locked in the henhouse:

    A situation where too many have entered or are tied to a commitment with no easy exit.

    Related Words

    coop:

    A small shelter for poultry.

    poultry:

    Domestic fowl raised for meat or eggs, primarily chickens.

    Slang Meanings of henhouse

    Meaning: A place where a lot of clucking happens, metaphorically indicating gossip or chatter.

    Example Sentence: The office has turned into a real henhouse with all the gossip floating around.

    Meaning: Referring to a chaotic or uncontrolled environment.

    Example Sentence: After the kids arrived, the house turned into a henhouse.