Meaning & Definition of Hen in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: An adult female chicken, especially when considered as a source of eggs.

  Example Sentence: The farmer has a dozen hens that lay eggs.

• Definition: A woman, especially one who is considered to be overprotective or domineering.

  Example Sentence: She can be a real hen when it comes to her children.

• Definition: A female of various animals, including birds, particularly used in farming.

  Example Sentence: The hen laid several eggs in the coop.

Etymology

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

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: gallina

• French: poule

• German: Henne

• Russian: курица

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.