Den
/dɛn/
Definitions
2 meaningsA shelter or resting place of a wild animal.
/dɛn/
A wild animal's shelter or resting place.
The wolves returned to their den after the hunt.
💡 Simply: Imagine a cozy cave or a safe house for animals! It's where they sleep, hide, and keep their babies safe. Like, a fox's den is its little home under the ground.
👶 For kids: A den is a special house for an animal, like a bear or a fox, to sleep in.
More Examples
The archaeologist discovered an ancient animal den in the cave.
The family of badgers made their den under the old oak tree.
How It's Used
"The bear retreated to its den for the winter."
"We found a fox den in the woods."
A small, often cozy room in a house used for relaxing, studying, or hobbies.
/dɛn/
A private room in a house, often for relaxation or hobbies.
The family gathered in the den to watch a movie.
💡 Simply: It's like your chill zone at home! A den is a comfy room, usually smaller, where you can hang out, watch TV, read, or do your hobbies. Think of it as a grown-up's fort.
👶 For kids: A den is a special room in the house where you can relax or play.
More Examples
He converted the spare room into a den.
The den was decorated with a comfortable sofa and a large television.
How It's Used
"He spent his evenings in his den, reading books."
"The house featured a cozy den with a fireplace."
From Old English *denn* "lair, cave", related to *dænn* "valley, dell". Ultimately from Proto-Germanic *danjan-.
The word 'den' has been used since Old English times to describe animal lairs and was later adopted to refer to a private room in a house. It's evolved from a very specific setting to a more adaptable meaning.
Memory tip
Think of the *den* as the *den* of the wolf.
Word Origin
"lair, cave"