Meaning of nest in English

1. Pronunciation

   /nɛst/

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   UK accent

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1. Verb

   nest

   Definitions

   1. inhabit a nest, usually after building

   Examples

   • « birds are nesting outside my window every Spring »
2. 2. fit together or fit inside

   Examples

   • « nested bowls »
3. 3. move or arrange oneself in a comfortable and cozy position

   Examples

   • « We cuddled against each other to keep warm »
   • « The children snuggled into their sleeping bags »
4. 4. gather nests

5. Noun

   nest

   Etymology

   Old English, of Germanic origin; related to Latin nidus, from the Indo-European bases of nether (meaning ‘down’) and sit

   Definitions

   1. a structure in which animals lay eggs or give birth to their young
6. 2. a kind of gun emplacement

   Examples

   • « a machine-gun nest »
   • « a nest of snipers »
7. 3. a cosy or secluded retreat
8. 4. a gang of people (criminals or spies or terrorists) assembled in one locality

   Examples

   • « a nest of thieves »
9. 5. furniture pieces made to fit close together