den
UK: den | US: den
n. 1. A hidden or secluded shelter, especially for wild animals (e.g., a lion's den).
n. 2. A quiet, private room for studying or relaxing.
n. 3. (Informal) A place where people gather for secret or illicit activities (e.g., a gambling den).
The word "den" traces back to Old English denn, meaning "animal shelter" or "cave," likely derived from Proto-Germanic danjō. Its core meaning of a hidden or protected space has persisted, expanding metaphorically to human contexts (e.g., study dens or illicit hideouts). The simplicity of the word reflects its ancient roots, with no further morphemes to dissect.
The fox retreated to its den after hunting.
She turned the attic into a cozy reading den.
Police raided an illegal gambling den last night.
Bears hibernate in their dens during winter.
His office was a cluttered den of paperwork.