Synonyms for

Nest

Verb / nest / Another word for nest — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a structure built by birds or other animals to hold eggs and young

Synonyms & similar words

snuggle cuddle drawclose nestle nuzzle birdhouse roost den lair hive burrow warren cubbyhole lodging shelter home habitat dwelling residence abode

Synonyms by register

Formal

residence dwelling habitation quarters

Informal

pad digs crib hangout

Literary

bower roost haven

Antonyms

disperse scatter leave abandon demolish destroy

Common collocations

  • build a nest
  • in a nest
  • bird's nest
  • nest egg
  • nestle into
  • nest of vipers
  • empty nest

Word family

noun nest
verb nest
adjective nesting

Usage note

Primarily refers to a bird's structure for laying eggs, but can be used metaphorically for a cozy home or a place of concealment. 'Nest egg' refers to savings.

Example sentences

  1. The mother bird sat on her eggs in the nest.
  2. The baby birds chirped loudly in the nest.
  3. The squirrel built a nest in the tree.
  4. The rabbit made a nest in the grass.
  5. The bee built a nest in the hive.

Quotes

  • Home is where the heart is - whether it's a cozy little shack or a sprawling estate. It's not about the structure, it's about the people and the memories that are made there, in that nest.
  • A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song.
  • Even the tiniest of birds can build a nest big enough to hold the biggest of dreams.

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