Drey

/dreɪ/ noun

Definition

A squirrel's nest, typically made of twigs, leaves, and bark woven together in the branches of a tree.

Etymology

From Old Norse 'drøgn,' related to Old English words for 'nest' or 'lair.' The word has been used in English, particularly in Scottish and Northern English dialects, for centuries to describe squirrel nests specifically.

Kelly Says

While most English speakers call them 'nests,' Scottish people kept the Old Norse word 'drey'—it's a reminder that English absorbed vocabulary from Norse raiders, and some words stayed regional while others became universal.

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