fan-tail

A fan-tail pigeon displays its beautiful tail feathers.

Definition

Noun:
- A fan-shaped tail: "fan-tail" refers to a tail that spreads out in the shape of a fan, typically seen in certain birds, fish, or aircraft.
- A type of pigeon: Specifically, "fan-tail" denotes a breed of domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) characterized by its large, upright, fan-shaped tail feathers.
- A part of a structure: In architecture or engineering, "fan-tail" can describe a fan-shaped component or appendage, such as the tail of a windmill or the end of a fan-blade.

Usage Examples

Noun:
- The peacock displayed its magnificent fan-tail during the mating dance. (A tail shaped like a fan, used for display.)
- She breeds fan-tail pigeons, which are prized for their elegant plumage. (A specific breed of pigeon with a fan-shaped tail.)
- The aircraft's fan-tail stabilizer improved its aerodynamic stability. (A fan-shaped tail component on a plane.)

Advanced Usage

"fan-tail pigeon": a specific breed of domestic pigeon.
- At the bird show, the fan-tail pigeon won first prize for its unique tail feathers. (A pigeon known for its upright, fan-like tail.)
"fan-tail windmill": a windmill with a fan-shaped tail that helps it face the wind.
- The old fan-tail windmill still turns slowly in the breeze. (A windmill with a fan-shaped tail for orientation.)

Variants and Related Words

Fan-tailed (adj): having a tail shaped like a fan.
- The fan-tailed goldfish is a popular aquarium species. (A goldfish with a broad, fan-like tail fin.)
Fantail (n): a common variant spelling of "fan-tail," often used interchangeably.
- The fantail is a breed of pigeon known for its showy tail. (Alternative spelling for the same concept.)

Synonyms

Phrasal Verbs

No common phrasal verbs are associated with "fan-tail" as it is primarily a noun.

Related Idioms