noun

pen

pen, enclosure

I need a pen to sign this document.

I need a pen to sign this document.

The sheep are in the pen.

The sheep are in the pen.

((a/the)) pen (noun) a writing instrument I need a red pen.

((a/the)) pen (noun) an enclosure The pigs are in the pen.

Synonyms: (writing) ballpoint, marker; (enclosure) corral, coop

The writing tool comes from Latin 'penna' (feather). The enclosure comes from Old English 'penn'. They have different origins.

Picture writing with a feather ('penna') for the writing tool, and putting pigs in a 'pen' for the enclosure.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.