chicken coop: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

It is a compound noun, typically written as two separate words ('chicken coop'). The hyphenated form 'chicken-coop' is less common but can be used, especially when acting as a modifier before a noun (e.g., 'chicken-coop design').

A 'coop' is typically a fully enclosed structure with a roof and walls where birds sleep and lay eggs. A 'pen' is often a larger, outdoor, fenced enclosure for animals to exercise in. Chickens might have a coop inside a larger pen.

Informally, yes, especially in rural or farming contexts. It means to put or keep chickens in a coop (e.g., 'Coop the chickens at dusk'). However, it is not a standard dictionary entry as a verb.

The word 'coop' comes from Middle English 'coupe' or 'cupe', meaning a basket or container, which itself derives from Latin 'cūpa' (cask, tub). It reflects the idea of a contained space.

A small, often portable, shelter or building for housing chickens.

Chicken coop is usually informal, agricultural in register.

Chicken coop: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtʃɪk.ɪn ˌkuːp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtʃɪk.ɪn ˌkuːp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.