Definition of "hen" []

• A female bird, especially the adult female of the domestic fowl. (noun)
• The female of certain aquatic animals, such as an octopus or lobster. (noun)
• Slang A woman, especially a fussy or nosy old woman. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The term hen-cocks is, in consequence, often applied to them; but although the sickle feathers are thus modified, no bird possesses higher courage, or a more gallant carriage."
• "These perky women, whose tops spell out the word "hen," resemble, at times, cheerleaders; the prominent men playing the tale's animals likewise have identifying letters on their T-shirts, somewhat like sports jerseys."
• "There are still a few situations in which I would put a decoy out but a hen is all you need."