The female of the domestic chicken, Gallus gallus domesticus (as distinguished from other (female) galliform birds); (in later use) specifically such a hen kept indoors as a pet.
Origin
Late 15th century; earliest use found in Mum and Sothsegger.
Definition of house hen in US English:
house hen
noun
The female of the domestic chicken, Gallus gallus domesticus (as distinguished from other (female) galliform birds); (in later use) specifically such a hen kept indoors as a pet.
Origin
Late 15th century; earliest use found in Mum and Sothsegger.