Brooding

Pronunciation
/BROOD-ing/
Category
Behavior
Singular
Brood
Plural
Broods

Definition

The act of caring for eggs or young. Many insects and arachnids exhibit brooding behavior to ensure the survival of the next generation.

Etymology

From Old English 'brod', meaning 'food' or 'provision'. Originally referring to a period of maternal care and protection.

Example

The brooding female monarch butterfly spends hours guarding her eggs.

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