Brood
/bruːd/noun
To sit on eggs to hatch them; also, to think deeply or worry persistently.
Did you know?The term 'brood' shares roots with the word 'broodmare,' indicating a deep connection to nurturing and creation, but also to possession and control in ancient breeding practices.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*brōðō
“to sit or remain, implying a protective or nurturing action.”
Old English
OE
brōd
“to hatch, specifically in the context of birds.”
Middle English
ME
broden
“to hatch; to remain in a state of contemplation or worry.”
Modern English
English
brood
“to incubate eggs or to dwell on thoughts, reflecting a more emotional or darker connotation.”
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