Feather

Definition

Feather refers to a lightweight structure growing from the skin of birds, consisting of a central shaft with vanes made of interlocking barbs. It is used for flight, insulation, and display. The term can also metaphorically refer to something light, delicate, or insignificant.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɛðər/
• Respelling: FEH-thər

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɛðə/
• Respelling: FEH-thə

Etymology

The word "feather" originates from Old English "feðer," which comes from Proto-Germanic "feþrō" and Proto-Indo-European "petro," meaning "wing" or "feather," associated with flying. It has cognates in several Germanic languages, such as Dutch "veer" and German "Feder."

Derivatives

• Feathery (adjective)
• Feathered (adjective)
• Featherweight (noun/adjective)
• Featherless (adjective)
• Feathering (noun/verb form)

Synonyms

• Plume
• Quill
• Down

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "feather" is used to describe the bird's plumage or a specific feather, as in "A peacock's feather is beautiful." As a verb, it describes smoothing or blending edges, such as "He feathered the paint to create a gradient." It can also refer to softening impacts or actions, such as "She feathered the brakes."

Related Terms

• Plumage: The entire set of feathers on a bird.
• Wing: The limb of a bird used for flight, often covered in feathers.
• Quill: The hollow shaft of a feather.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A lightweight structure growing from the skin of birds: Refers to the physical object used for flight, insulation, or display.
  • Example: "The eagle lost a feather as it soared through the sky."
• A metaphorical reference to lightness or insignificance: Often used to denote something delicate or unimportant.
  • Example: "It’s just a feather in the grand scheme of things."

Verb

• To smooth or blend the edges of something: Used to describe techniques in painting, design, or construction.
  • Example: "The artist feathered the edges of the paint for a seamless finish."
• To turn the blades of a propeller or oar to reduce resistance: Used in aviation and rowing.
  • Example: "The pilot feathered the propeller to conserve fuel."
• To soften or make gradual: Refers to lessening intensity or impact.
  • Example: "She feathered her words to avoid offending him."