nest

Nest is a term used for structures or places built or occupied to rear offspring, primarily by birds. Birds construct nests from materials such as twigs, leaves, feathers, and mud in trees, shrubs, on buildings, or on the ground. Nests vary from simple cups to elaborate domed or cavity nests, and may be reused or abandoned after reproduction. Nests provide shelter, insulation, and proximity to food, while some species rely on nest-building skills as a key part of parental care.

Nests are not limited to birds. Many other animals, including some mammals, reptiles, and insects, construct or inhabit nests that serve similar purposes for brooding and protection. Social insects such as bees, wasps, ants, and termites create highly organized nest systems that function as brood chambers, food storage, and defense.

In contemporary usage, Nest refers to a technology company known for smart home devices. Nest Labs was founded in 2010 by Tony Fadell and Matt Rogers and specialized in connected devices such as the Nest Thermostat, Nest Learning Thermostat, Nest Protect smoke and CO alarm, Nest Cam security cameras, and the Nest Hello doorbell. The company was acquired by Google in 2014 and operates under the Google Nest brand, integrating devices with Google services and the broader smart-home ecosystem.

Beyond biology and brand names, the word nest also appears in culture as a metaphor for a home, refuge, or place of origin. It connotes safety, care, and belonging.