Plume

/pluːm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A feather or cluster of feathers, especially when worn for ornament.

The bird displayed a vibrant plume of colorful feathers during its courtship dance.

A long, soft, and fluffy feather or a similar object.

She decorated her hat with a striking white plume that swayed gently in the breeze.

An upward surge of smoke, vapor, or liquid, often resembling the shape of a feather or a column.

The plume of smoke from the volcano could be seen from miles away.

A cloud of particles or a visible mass, often associated with a specific source.

The oil spill resulted in a dark plume spreading across the water's surface.

verb

To bring or use conspicuously or ostentatiously; to flaunt.

He plumed himself on his achievements, telling everyone about his latest promotion.

To decorate or adorn with feathers.

The costume was plumed with bright and extravagant feathers for the parade.

To spread out or project in a way that resembles a feather.

The smoke plumed into the sky, creating an eerie sight.

Middle English, from Old French 'plume', from Latin 'pluma' meaning 'feather' or 'down'.

plume of smoke

A vertical column of smoke arising from a source, typically indicative of combustion.

plume one's feathers

To preen oneself or to boast about one's achievements.

feather

A structure that forms the outer covering of birds.

tuft

A bunch or collection of threads, grass, feathers, or hair.

crest

A tuft or plume of feathers on the head of a bird.

A person's pride or sense of self-importance.

He's got a real plume about his new job.

To flaunt or show off.

She's always pluming in front of her friends.