What does drey mean?
A drey is a type of nest built by birds, particularly squirrels and birds of prey. It is typically made of twigs and leaves and serves as a shelter for the bird or its young. The word 'drey' is often used in British English to refer to a bird's nest, especially a squirrel's nest. It is not commonly used in American English, where the word 'nest' is more commonly used. The drey is an important part of a bird's life, providing a safe and cozy space for the bird to raise its young. The word 'drey' is derived from the German word 'Drehen', meaning to turn or twist, and the Old English word 'dregan', meaning to drag or draw. The drey is a fascinating aspect of bird behavior and ecology, and the word 'drey' is an interesting and useful term to know.
nounA drey is a nest, typically made of twigs and leaves, built by a bird, especially a squirrel or a bird of prey, to shelter itself or its young.
- A nest, typically made of twigs and leaves, built by a bird, especially a squirrel or a bird of prey, to shelter itself or its young.
"The squirrel built a cozy drey high up in the oak tree."
"The squirrel built a cozy drey high up in the oak tree."
"The bird of prey built a sturdy drey in the branches of the pine tree."
The plural form 'dreys' is used to refer to multiple nests.
"The squirrel built several dreys in the oak tree."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of drey
The word 'drey' originated from the German word 'Drehen', meaning to turn or twist, and the Old English word 'dregan', meaning to drag or draw. The word 'drey' was first used in the 15th century to refer to a bird's nest, and it has been used in this sense ever since. The word 'drey' is closely related to the word 'nest', and the two words are often used interchangeably.
Usage notes
The word 'drey' is often used in British English to refer to a bird's nest, especially a squirrel's nest. It is not commonly used in American English.