hens

word · lemma: hen

Definition

Female chickens, especially adult ones, usually kept for their eggs or meat.

Usage & Nuances

Common in farming, 'hens' always refers to female chickens (not roosters). Used in set phrases like 'laying hens.' Don't use 'hens' for other birds unless in a very specific farming context.

Example Sentences

The hens lay eggs every morning.

basic

There are five hens in the yard.

basic

My grandmother feeds the hens every afternoon.

basic

All the hens started clucking loudly when the dog ran by.

natural

We bought some new hens so we’ll have more eggs this year.

natural

Those hens over there are pecking at the grass looking for bugs.

natural