Ents are the tree-herding race in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. They are ancient, tree-like beings who protect forests and are especially prominent in The Lord of the Rings.
The most prominent Ent is Treebeard, whose name in Tolkien’s invented language is Fangorn. During the story, the Ents gather in an Entmoot and decide to attack Isengard after learning how Saruman’s forces have destroyed trees. Their march against Isengard is one of the novel’s major turning points.
Ents should not be confused with Huorns. Huorns are related, more mysterious tree-like beings, but Ents are the articulate tree shepherds with a distinct society and language. The Great Eagles are also allies of the Free Peoples, yet they are an entirely different race associated with the skies rather than forests.