Pronunciation: [nˈɛstɪd] (IPA) 
The word "nested" is spelled with the letters N-E-S-T-E-D. The first syllable, "nest," is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ɛ/, while the second syllable, "-ed," is pronounced with the schwa sound /əd/. The "s" is pronounced with a soft "s" sound /s/, as opposed to a hard "z" sound /z/. This word is often used to describe a series of items or elements that are organized within each other, such as nested folders on a computer.
Nested [adjective]
The term "nested" refers to the action of placing or arranging something inside or within another thing, to create a hierarchical or layered structure. It describes a situation or object that is enclosed within another similar or related entity, forming a series of branching or interconnected levels. The concept of nesting implies a nesting relationship, where one thing is nested within another at a deeper level.
In programming or computer science, "nested" often refers to a construct involving multiple layers or levels. For instance, nested loops or nested functions involve placing one loop or function within another, allowing for complex and versatile control flow or code organization. Similarly, nested data structures involve arranging data elements within each other, such as lists within lists or dictionaries within dictionaries. This nesting allows for the representation and manipulation of hierarchical or structured data efficiently.
When it comes to physical objects or design, "nested" commonly denotes the act of arranging items or components inside one another to save space or facilitate transportation. For instance, nesting tables or nesting dolls exhibit a set of tables or dolls that fit neatly into one another, often decreasing in size as they are nested. This nested arrangement is not only aesthetically appealing but also serves practical purposes.
Overall, the term "nested" encompasses the concept of placing one object or element within another, whether it be in programming, design, or any other context. It involves layered structuring, interdependence, and often brings about advantages such as efficiency, space-saving, or improved organization.
Nest-egg, an egg left in a nest to prevent the hen forsaking it; something laid up as a beginning or nucleus.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "nested" comes from the Middle English noun "nest" which originated from Old English "nest" and earlier from the Proto-Germanic "nastiz". The Proto-Germanic word is believed to have been derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "nes-", meaning "to return to, flee". It is also related to the Old High German word "nisto" and the Old Norse word "nöst", both having similar meanings. Over time, "nested" emerged as the past tense and past participle form of the verb "nest", meaning "to build or settle into a nest". The word "nested" is primarily used in the context of objects or information that are organized or arranged in a hierarchical or layered structure, mimicking the structure of a bird's nest.
