What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nest
Example
The mother bird built a nest in the tree to lay her eggs. [nest: noun]
Example
I love to nestle up in my bed with a good book on a rainy day. [nest: verb]
Example
She kept her most valuable possessions hidden away in a secret nest. [nest: noun]
roost
Example
The chickens always return to their roost at night to sleep. [roost: noun]
Example
The eagle perched on the highest roost to survey the landscape below. [roost: noun]
Example
He likes to roost in his favorite armchair and watch TV all day. [roost: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nest is more commonly used than roost in everyday language, especially when referring to birds. Roost is less common and often used in specific contexts, such as describing a place where bats or chickens rest.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nest and roost?
Both nest and roost are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversations. However, nest may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with breeding and raising young.
