Meaning & Definition of word "Nestling"

Nestling

/ˈnɛst.lɪŋ/

1. A young bird that has not yet acquired its feathers and is still dependent on its parents.
- Example: The mother bird returned to the nest to feed the nestling.
2. A young or inexperienced person.
- Example: The coach was patient with the nestlings on the team, understanding their need for guidance.
3. A plant or fungus in its early stages of growth.
- Example: The garden was filled with beautiful flowers, but the nestlings of the new seedlings were still delicate.

Derived from the verb 'nest' combined with the diminutive suffix '-ling'.

nestling stage:

The early phase of development where one relies on others.

to be as safe as a nestling:

To be in a very safe or protected situation.

nestle into:

To settle comfortably in a place.

fledge:

To develop wing feathers that are large enough for flight.

nest:

A structure built by birds to hold their eggs and young.

brood:

A group of young birds hatched at the same time.

Meaning: A term used to refer to a new or inexperienced person in a field.

Example Sentence: In the office, he was treated like a nestling, still learning the ropes.