Definition

Noun: * An enclosed yard for keeping poultry: A secure, fenced, or netted outdoor area attached to a chicken coop, designed to allow chickens to move about, exercise, and forage while being protected from predators.

Usage

The term "chicken run" is a compound noun. It is used to specify the type of enclosure. It is typically preceded by articles (a, the) or possessives (my, their). * We need to repair the fence around the chicken run. * The hens are much happier since we built them a larger chicken run.

Advanced Usage

• The concept can be extended metaphorically to describe any confined or hectic environment where movement is restricted but constant.
  • The open-plan office felt like a chicken run, with people scurrying about in full view of the managers.

Variants and Related Words

• Run (noun): While "run" alone can mean a fast pace or a sequence, in the context of animal husbandry, it specifically means an enclosed area for animals. "Chicken run" is the most common specific compound.
• Coop (noun): The sheltered house where chickens roost and lay eggs. A coop is often connected to a run.
• Pen (noun): A general term for a small enclosed area for animals. A chicken run is a type of pen.
• Enclosure (noun): The general term for any area that is closed off.

Synonyms

• Poultry yard
• Hen run (a less common variant)
• Fowl run

Related Phrases

• To free-range: A system where poultry are allowed to roam freely outdoors, as opposed to being kept in a coop and run.
  • We let our chickens free-range in the afternoons, but they sleep in the coop.

Noun

1. an enclosed yard for keeping poultry