brood
noun
- 1
The young of certain animals, especially a group of young birds or fowl hatched at one time by the same mother.
- 2
The young of any egg-laying creature, especially if produced at the same time.
- 3
The eggs and larvae of social insects such as bees, ants and some wasps, especially when gathered together in special brood chambers or combs within the colony.
- 4
The children in one family; offspring.
- 5
That which is bred or produced; breed; species.
- 6
Parentage.
- 7
Heavy waste in tin and copper ores.
verb
- 1
To keep an egg warm to make it hatch.
“In some species of birds, both the mother and father brood the eggs.”
- 2
To protect (something that is gradually maturing); to foster.
“Under the rock was a midshipman fish, brooding a mass of eggs.”
- 3
(typically with about or over) To dwell upon moodily and at length, mainly alone.
“He sat brooding about the upcoming battle, fearing the outcome.”
- 4
To be bred.
adjective
- 1
Kept or reared for breeding, said of animals.
“a brood mare”
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