Meaning & Definition of word "Hen"

Hen

/hɛn/

noun:

  • 1. An adult female chicken, especially one that is kept for laying eggs.
    • Example: The farmer collects eggs from the hen every morning.
  • 2. A term used in some contexts to refer to a female of certain other birds or animals.
    • Example: The hen sparrow built her nest in the eaves of the house.
  • 3. Colloquially, a term of endearment for a woman or a girl.
    • Example: She greeted her friend with a cheerful, 'How are you, hen?'

Etymology

Middle English 'hen', from Old English 'hǣn', of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

henpecked:

A man who is controlled by or submissive to his wife or girlfriend.

henhouse:

A building for domestic chickens.

mother hen:

A woman who is overly protective or nurturing.

Related Words

cock:

An adult male chicken.

chick:

A young chicken.

poultry:

Domestic fowl raised for food.

Slang Meanings of hen

Meaning: A derogatory term for a woman.

Example Sentence: He called her a hen for being so overly cautious.

Meaning: A close female friend, often used in a jovial context.

Example Sentence: She's my hen; we do everything together.