Word: aerie (noun)

Associations

The word "aerie" means a large nest of a bird of prey, like an eagle or hawk, usually built high up on a cliff or tall tree. It is a place where these birds live and raise their young.

• Example 1: "The eagle returned to its aerie on the mountain every spring." This shows the bird's home.
• Example 2: "From the aerie, the hawk had a perfect view of the valley below." This shows the high and safe place.
• Example 3: "The castle was built like an aerie, perched on the rocky hill." Here, aerie is used to describe a high, protected place, like a nest.

A well-known synonym is "nest." The difference: "nest" is general for any bird's home, but "aerie" is specifically for large birds of prey and emphasizes height and safety.

Substitution

Instead of "aerie," you can say:

• "nest" (more general, any bird)
• "eagle's nest" (more specific)
• "perch" (a place to sit or rest, less about home) Using "nest" makes it less specific and less grand than "aerie."

Deconstruction

The word "aerie" comes from Old French "aire," meaning "nest." It is related to the Latin "area," meaning an open space. The word suggests a high, open place where birds build their nests.

Inquiry

• Can you think of other animals that build homes high up like an aerie?
• Why do you think birds of prey build their aerie in high places?
• Have you ever seen a place that looks like an aerie, maybe a house or a building on a hill? How did it feel?