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hen

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noun \ˈhen\

Simple Definition of hen

  • : an adult female chicken

  • : a female bird of any kind

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of hen

  1. 1 a :  a female chicken especially over a year old; broadly :  a female bird b :  the female of various mostly aquatic animals (as lobsters or fish)

  2. 2 :  woman; especially :  a fussy middle-aged woman

See hen defined for English-language learners

See hen defined for kids



Origin and Etymology of hen

Middle English, from Old English henn; akin to Old English hana rooster — more at chant


First Known Use: before 12th century

Phrases related to HEN

Related Phrases



HEN Defined for Kids

hen

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noun \ˈhen\

Definition of hen for Students

  1. 1 :  a female domestic fowl

  2. 2 :  a female bird



Learn More about hen

  1. Spanish Central: Translation of hen Nglish: Translation of hen for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of hen for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hen

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