Den Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdɛn/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small, usually private, room or space for reading, writing, or relaxation; a private retreat or sanctuary.

Examples

• The author uses a worn-out armchair in her den to write her novels.
• He spent hours in his cozy den, surrounded by his favorite books and music.

Synonyms

• Cabin
• Study

Antonyms

• Open
• Public

Etymology

The word “den” comes from the Old English word “denu,” meaning “valley” or “glade.”

Usage Notes

The word “den” is often used to describe a small, enclosed space, and is typically used in a figurative sense to describe a private retreat or sanctuary. It can also be used to describe the den of a wild animal, such as a bear’s den.

Cultural References

The TV show “Family Ties” featured a character named Alex P. Keaton who had a well-known “den” in his family’s home, where he would spend hours working on his business ventures.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“In his den” is an idiomatic phrase used to describe someone being in a private or secluded space.

Related Words or Phrases

cabin, study, lair, cave

Collocations

den + article (e.g. “his den”, “my den”), den + prepositional phrase (e.g. “in his den”, “at the back of the den”)

Frequency of Use

The word “den” is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is often used in literary or poetic contexts to describe a private or secluded space.

Common Misspellings

den -> denn, denen, denne