nest

nest

noun

Definition of NEST

1

a place or environment that favors the development of something <suspected that the elite private universities were a nest of antigovernment sentiments>

Synonyms hotbed, hothouse, nest, nidus, nursery, seedbed, seminary

Related Words crucible; base, capital, center, core, cynosure, eye, focus, heart, hub, mecca, nucleus, seat; focus, headquarters

2

a place where a person goes to hide or to avoid others <headed back to her cozy nest in the mountains for a little rest and relaxation>

Synonyms concealment, covert, den, hermitage, hideaway, hidey-hole (or hidy-hole), lair, nest

Related Words blind, cover, nook, recess; hangout, harbor, harborage, haunt, haven, redoubt, refuge, retreat, shelter