1 B1 neutral
To fit objects inside one another in layers so they take up minimal space.
"The measuring cups nest together in the drawer, saving a lot of kitchen space."
nest together
B2 neutral transitive/intransitive
To fit neatly inside or around each other in layers, like stacking cups or bowls.
In plain English
To fit perfectly inside each other so they take up less space, like putting smaller cups inside bigger ones.
What does "nest together" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 formal
In computing, to place data structures, loops, or elements within one another hierarchically.
"You can nest these JSON objects together to represent complex relationships."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To sit together like birds in a nest, fitting snugly.
Actually means
To fit perfectly inside each other so they take up less space, like putting smaller cups inside bigger ones.
Usage tip
Used in both literal (design, furniture, storage) and technical (data structures, software) contexts. Also used metaphorically to describe ideas or elements that fit perfectly within each other.
Words that pair with "nest together"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
bowls chairs containers tables data structures elements
How to conjugate "nest together"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
nest together
I/you/we/they
3rd person
nests together
he/she/it
Past simple
nested together
yesterday
Past participle
nested together
have + pp
-ing form
nesting together
continuous
Hear "nest together" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "nest together" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "nest together"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
fit inside each other interlock stack telescope
Keep exploring
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