Birdnest

/ˈbɜrdnɛst/ noun

Definition

A nest built by birds for laying eggs and raising young; can also refer to a tangled or messy mass resembling a bird's nest.

Etymology

Compound of 'bird' (Old English 'brid') and 'nest' (Old English 'nest'). Ancient compound reflecting humanity's long observation of avian architecture and domestic habits.

Kelly Says

Swiftlet bird nests in Southeast Asia are made of saliva and are harvested for bird's nest soup—a luxury ingredient worth thousands per pound, showing how one bird's home became an international commodity.

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