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Definition of nestling

nestling

/ˈnɛs.lɪŋ/
nest · ling
Plural:nestlings
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nestling Lexical Profile

nestling Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A young bird that is too young to leave the nest and remains wholly dependent on its parents for food and protection.

Example

"The parent robins made dozens of trips each hour to bring insects to the hungry nestlings."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for nestling

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'nestling' with 'fledgling': a nestling is a young bird still confined to the nest and entirely dependent on its parents, whereas a fledgling has developed flight feathers and is ready to leave or has just left the nest.

• Rhymes for nestling

• Nearby Words

nesting
nestle
nestlike
nestling
nestmate
nestucca
net

Word Origin & Etymology

Recorded in Middle English from the late 14th century, formed from the Old English noun 'nest' and the diminutive suffix '-ling', denoting a young creature associated with a nest.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nestling. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nestling
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