Pronunciation: [bˈantam hˈɛn] (IPA) 
The word "bantam hen" refers to a small breed of chicken often kept for their ornamental appearance. Its spelling is a combination of the word "bantam," which comes from a Javanese city where these chickens were first imported, and "hen," which is a female chicken. In IPA phonetic transcription, "bantam" is pronounced as /ˈbæntəm/ and "hen" as /hɛn/. Together, the word is pronounced as /ˈbæntəm hɛn/.
A bantam hen is a breed of domestic chicken that is smaller in size compared to regular chicken breeds. It is a miniature variety often valued for its petite frame, vibrant plumage, and charming demeanor. Bantam hens typically weigh around 1 to 2 pounds, which is significantly lighter than larger chicken breeds. They are known for their compact body, rounded carriage, and relatively short legs.
These hens are commonly kept as pets or for exhibition purposes rather than for commercial meat or egg production. They are adored for their ornamental qualities and make delightful additions to backyard flocks or urban chicken coops. Bantam hens come in various breeds, each with distinctive feather patterns, colors, and feather leg types, such as Silkies, Cochin Bantams, or Pekin Bantams.
In terms of behavior, bantam hens exhibit docile and friendly temperaments, making them ideal for families or individuals seeking a more personable chicken keeping experience. They are known to be good brooders, often exemplifying strong maternal instincts and a tendency to sit on their own eggs or even hatch eggs from other poultry species.
Overall, the bantam hen is a diminutive yet enchanting chicken breed that captivates the hearts of chicken enthusiasts and hobbyists alike. It serves both as a delightful feathered companion and an attractive addition to any poultry collection or exhibition.
The word "bantam" originally comes from the Dutch language, specifically from the name of a city called Bantam in Java, Indonesia. Bantam was a major trading port during the Dutch colonial period. In the 17th century, small domestic chickens were imported from this region to Europe through the port of Bantam. These chickens were referred to as "Bantams" due to their association with the city. Over time, the term "bantam" came to be used generally as an adjective to describe anything small in size, including small breeds of chickens. Thus, the term "bantam hen" refers to a small variety of domestic chicken.
