feathers

feath-ers · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Plural of "feather"; the flat appendages growing from a bird's skin that form its plumage.

  2. 2.

    Third person singular present tense of the verb "feather."

  3. 3.

    (figurative) One's temper or emotional state.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in fine feathers — Dressed in fancy clothes; looking well
  • •
    make the feathers fly — To cause a commotion or fight
  • •
    show the white feather — To show cowardice (historical)
  • •
    smooth ruffled feathers — To calm someone who is upset

Related words

See also: bird, feather, plumage
Synonyms: down, plumage, plumes

Etymology

From Old English feþer, from Proto-Germanic fethrō. The plural form with -s developed in Middle English.