PEN Definition

PEN
abbreviation

1. International Association of Poets, Playwrights, Editors, Essayists, and Novelists.

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pen¹
noun

1. A writing instrument that uses ink, formerly a quill, now any of various implements fitted with a nib (fountain pen), rotating ball (ballpoint), or felt or nylon point (felt pen).
2. This instrument as a symbol of the writing profession.

verb

penned, penning
1. formal
To compose and write (a letter, poem, etc) with a pen.
Thesaurus: write, author, compose, draft, jot down.

Derivative: penned
adj

Written; quilled.

Etymology: 14c: from Latin penna feather.

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pen²
noun

1. A small enclosure, especially for animals.

Thesaurus: enclosure, cage, corral, stall, hutch, sty, coop.
2. Any small enclosure or area of confinement for the specified purpose.

Example: a playpen
3. A bomb-proof dock for submarines.
(Caribb)
4. A cattle farm.
(Caribb)
5. An estate or plantation.

verb

penned, pent, penning
1. To enclose or confine them in a pen, or as if in a pen.

Thesaurus: enclose, close in, fence in, confine, shut up, coop up (slang).
Form: pen someone or something in (often)
Form: pen someone or something up

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon penn.

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pen³
noun

(N Amer)
1. colloq
A penitentiary.

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pen⁴
noun

1. A female swan. See also cob¹ (sense 2), cygnet.

Etymology: 16c.