Broody Meaning in English
word
Definition
Describes someone who is quiet and thoughtful, often appearing sad or lost in thought. In animals, especially hens, it refers to wanting to sit on eggs to hatch them.
Usage & Nuances
More common in literary or descriptive contexts than daily conversation for people; in farming, used literally for hens wanting to hatch eggs. For people, 'broody' can sometimes mean wanting a baby (especially for women), but usually means 'thoughtful and a little withdrawn.' Don't confuse with 'moody' (frequent mood changes).
Example Sentences
She looked broody as she stared out the window.
basic
The hen is broody and refuses to leave her eggs.
basic
He became broody after reading the old letters.
basic
He's been acting really broody lately, just sitting quietly and thinking.
natural
Some women feel broody when they see babies.
natural
The farmer separated the broody hen from the others to let her hatch the eggs.
natural