coven

UK: ˈkʌv(ə)n | US: ˈkʌvən

Definition

  1. n. a gathering or assembly of witches

  2. n. a small, secretive group with shared interests or practices

Structure
cov <group>en <noun suffix>
Etymology

coven = cov<group> + en<noun suffix>

  • cov<group>: Derived from Old French covine (agreement, assembly), from Latin convenium (meeting, assembly), related to convenire (to come together).
  • en<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns, often indicating a collective or place (e.g., "den," "pen").

Etymology Origin:
The word coven traces back to Latin convenire (to assemble), reflecting its original meaning of a gathering. In Middle English, it evolved via Old French covine, narrowing to describe witch meetings by the 17th century. The morpheme cov preserves the core idea of "group," while -en solidifies its noun form.

Examples

  1. The witches gathered in their coven under the full moon.

  2. She joined a coven to study ancient rituals.

  3. The coven met secretly in the forest.

  4. Local legends spoke of a powerful coven haunting the hills.

  5. Modern covens often focus on nature-based spirituality.