I. ˈden noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English denn; akin to Old English denu valley, Old High German tenni threshing floor
Date: before 12th century
1. : the lair of a wild usually predatory animal
2.
a.
(1) : a hollow or cavern used especially as a hideout
(2) : a center of secret activity
b. : a small usually squalid dwelling
3. : a comfortable usually secluded room
4. : a subdivision of a Cub Scout pack made up of two or more boys
II. verb
( denned ; den·ning )
Date: 13th century
intransitive verb
: to live in or retire to a den
polar bears den in ice caves or snowdrifts
transitive verb
: to drive into a den