Feather

/ˈfɛðər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

One of the light, flat structures that cover the bodies of birds and are made of keratin.

The bird's feathers shone brightly in the sunlight.

A feather or an arrangement of feathers, especially one used for decoration.

She wore a beautiful hat adorned with a large feather.

A light, soft, and often ornamental item, typically used for padding or stuffing.

The pillow was filled with soft goose feathers.

verb

To put feathers on (an arrow or similar projectile) for stability in flight.

He carefully feathered the arrows to ensure they flew straight.

To cover or adorn with feathers.

The costume was feathered to give it a more dramatic look.

To move lightly and softly, like a feather.

She feathered through the water, barely making a splash.

Middle English 'fether', from Old English 'fether', related to Dutch 'veertje' and German 'Feder'.

feather your nest

To enrich oneself at the expense of others.

feather in your cap

An accomplishment that one can be proud of.

as light as a feather

Very light.

plumage

The feathers covering a bird.

quill

A feather with a hard shaft, or an old writing instrument made from a feather.

down

The soft, fine feathers of a bird, typically found beneath the tougher outer feathers.

To feather someone's nest

He's been feathering his nest with that shady deal.

Featherweight

He's a featherweight when it comes to the boxing ring.