brood
/bɹuːd/noun
Definitions
The young of certain animals, especially a group of young birds or fowl hatched at one time by the same mother.
The young of any egg-laying creature, especially if produced at the same time.
The eggs and larvae of social insects such as bees, ants and some wasps, especially when gathered together in special brood chambers or combs within the colony.
The children in one family; offspring.
verb
Definitions
To keep an egg warm to make it hatch.
Example: In some species of birds, both the mother and father brood the eggs.
To protect (something that is gradually maturing); to foster.
Example: Under the rock was a midshipman fish, brooding a mass of eggs.
(typically with about or over) To dwell upon moodily and at length, mainly alone.
Example: He sat brooding about the upcoming battle, fearing the outcome.
To be bred.
adjective
Definitions
Kept or reared for breeding, said of animals.
Example: a brood mare