plumage

noun

plum·​age ˈplü-mij How to pronounce plumage (audio)
: the feathers of a bird
plumaged adjective

Examples of plumage in a Sentence

The peacock has colorful plumage.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Known for their unique spiked plumage and chunky, round bodies, the sage-grouse have fallen prey to the impacts of climate change, according to the bureau. Sharon Udasin, The Hill, 16 Jan. 2025 His triumphs, mistakes, strengths, weaknesses, wigs, and duck costumes have been in full and permanent plumage. Belinda Luscombe, TIME, 11 Dec. 2024 The study found several important connections: Both alpha and beta bacterial diversity were related to individual variation in body condition and plumage color saturation, but glucocorticoid (a stress hormone) concentrations were not. Grrlscientist, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024 Based on its plumage, birders say the anhinga is a young female that was likely born last year. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for plumage 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from Old French, from plume feather — more at plume

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of plumage was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near plumage

Cite this Entry

“Plumage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plumage. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

plumage

noun
plum·​age ˈplü-mij How to pronounce plumage (audio)
: the feathers of a bird

More from Merriam-Webster on plumage

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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