nestling

American  

[nest-ling, nes-ling] / ˈnɛst lɪŋ, ˈnɛs lɪŋ /

noun

1. a young bird not yet old enough to leave the nest.

2. a young child or infant.

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nestling British  

/ ˈnɛslɪŋ, ˈnɛstlɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. a young bird not yet fledged

   2. ( as modifier )

      a nestling thrush

2. any young person or animal

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Etymology

Origin of nestling

First recorded in 1400–50; Middle English; nest, -ling ¹

Example Sentences

We explore historic and natural sights in Lisbon and nearby, including the breathtaking hills nestling the palaces of Sintra.

From The Wall Street Journal

The study shows wildebeest frequently crisscross the Sand River and the areas surrounding the Ritz-Carlton, even though they avoid forested areas nestling the camp due to the risk of predators.

From The Wall Street Journal

The bearded six-foot-two Cuban embraced the five-foot-two Russian, and Khrushchev would later describe the pleasant sensation of nestling in the arms of a bear.

From Literature

But for a hummingbird with a broken wing or a nestling with a missing mom, the situation is life-threatening.

From Los Angeles Times

Many years ago, her cat had escaped and came back with a hummingbird nestling.

From Salon

Related Words

• baby
• boy
• daughter
• girl
• juvenile
• kid
• minor
• offspring
• son
• youngster
• youth