I. ˈbrüdē, -di adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: brood (I) + -y
1.
a. archaic : tending or seeking to reproduce : prolific
b. of a hen bird : ready to brood : physiologically fit for setting
c. of a female mammal : suitable for the production of offspring (as by reason of good conformation, vigor, and heredity)
a broody gilt
2. : contemplative , depressed , moody
II. noun
or broody hen
( -es )
: a hen ready to brood — called also setting hen