eclipse plumage

noun

: comparatively dull plumage that is usually of seasonal occurrence in birds exhibiting a distinct breeding plumage

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eclipse plumage was in 1906

Dictionary Entries Near eclipse plumage

Cite this Entry

“Eclipse plumage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eclipse%20plumage. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on eclipse plumage

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!