pen1
n.
- an instrument for writing or drawing with ink, typically consisting of a metal nib or ball, or a nylon tip, fitted into a metal or plastic holder.
▸
(the pen)
writing as an occupation.
▸an electronic device used in conjunction with a writing surface to enter commands or data into a computer.
- Zoology the tapering cartilaginous internal shell of a squid.
v.
(pens, penning, penned)
write or compose.
Phrase
- pen and ink
Brit. rhyming slang a stink.
Etymology
ME (orig. denoting a feather with a sharpened quill): from OFr. penne, from L. penna ‘feather’.
pen2
n.
- a small enclosure in which sheep, pigs, or other farm animals are kept.
- a covered dock for a submarine or other warship.
- (in the West Indies) a farm or plantation.
v.
(pens, penning, penned)
- put or keep in a pen.
-
(pen someone up/in)
confine someone in a restricted space.
Etymology
OE penn, of unknown origin.