roost

UK: ruːst | US: ruːst

Definition

  1. n. a place where birds regularly settle or congregate to rest or sleep

  2. vi. (of birds) to settle or congregate for rest or sleep

Structure
roost <perch or resting place for birds>
Etymology

The word "roost" traces back to Old English hrōst, meaning a wooden framework or perch for birds. It shares roots with Old High German hruost (roof) and Old Norse hrót (shed), reflecting its original association with elevated structures. Over time, it narrowed specifically to bird perches, retaining its core idea of a resting place.

Examples

  1. The chickens returned to their roost at dusk.

  2. Owls often roost in hollow trees during the day.

  3. A flock of pigeons roosted on the cathedral’s ledge.

  4. The farmer built a new roost for the turkeys.

  5. Bats typically roost in caves or dark attics.