Meaning & Definition of word "Hen"
to
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.