Meaning & Definition of word "Tail"
to
Tail
/teɪl/
noun:
- 1. The elongated rear part of an animal's body.
- Example: The dog wagged its tail excitedly when its owner came home.
- 2. A similar structure in objects, such as a kite or comet.
- Example: The comet had a beautiful tail that glowed brightly in the night sky.
- 3. A part of a garment, typically a long piece hanging down from the back.
- Example: The bride's dress had a long, flowing tail that trailed behind her as she walked.
- 4. The part of a coin opposite the side with the image.
- Example: He flipped the coin and it landed on tails.
- 5. A person or group of people following someone or something.
- Example: The politician had a tail of reporters following him everywhere he went.
verb:
- 1. To follow someone closely.
- Example: The detective decided to tail the suspect to gather more information.
- 2. To add a tail to something.
- Example: They decided to tail the new feature to the software update.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'tægel', related to similar Germain words.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tail end:
The final part of something.
tail between one's legs:
To retreat humbly or submissively.
a long tail:
A group of numerous small items that together make a significant total.
turntail:
To retreat quickly.
Related Words
tails:
The plural form of 'tail'.
tailbone:
The small bone at the base of the spine.
tailwind:
A wind that blows in the direction of travel.
Slang Meanings of tail
Meaning: Tail as a term for a sexual partner.
Example Sentence: He was out looking for some tail at the club.
Meaning: To follow someone, usually for the purpose of observation.
Example Sentence: I had to tail him to find out what he was up to.