n. & v.
n. 1 a branch or other support on which a bird perches, esp. a place where birds regularly settle to sleep. 2 a place offering temporary sleeping-accommodation.
v. 1 intr. a (of a bird) settle for rest or sleep. b (of a person) stay for the night. 2 tr. provide with a sleeping-place. come home to roost (of a scheme etc.) recoil unfavourably upon the originator.
[ OE hrost ]