Definition

Relating to animals that are kept for breeding purposes, especially birds.

Example

The farmer has a brood hen to produce more chicks.

Conversation

Have you seen the new brood hens at the farm?

Yeah, they look really healthy and ready for breeding.

I heard they produce some great eggs too.

Absolutely! I can’t wait to try them out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To think deeply or worry about something, often in a sad or moody way.

Example

She tends to brood over her mistakes instead of moving on.

Tense Forms

Conversation

You seem quiet today, is everything okay?

Yeah, I've just been brooding over some things that happened at work.

I understand, sometimes it helps to talk about it.

Definition

A group of young animals, especially birds, that are born and raised together by the same mother.

Example

The mother hen took care of her brood, keeping them safe and warm.

Conversation

Did you see that nest in the tree?

Yeah, it looks like a big brood of chicks is about to hatch!

I can’t wait to see them; they’ll be so cute!

Definition

To sit on eggs to help them hatch, or to cover and protect young birds with wings.

Example

The mother hen will brood her eggs until they hatch into chicks.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how that bird broods over its eggs?

Yeah, it's fascinating to watch them take care of their young.

I wonder how long they brood before the eggs hatch.

Root Explanation

Brood originates from Old English 'brōd', meaning to sit on eggs to hatch them. The word refers to the act of a bird sitting on its eggs to nurture and protect them until they hatch.

Memory Tip

Think of a bird sitting on its eggs, nurturing them — that's what 'brood' means.

Visually Confused Words