Definition

Noun: 1. A fan-shaped structure or part: Specifically, in nautical contexts, it refers to the fan-shaped part of a ship's deck that extends over the stern (the rear of the ship), aft of the sternpost. 2. A domestic pigeon breed: A breed of pigeon characterized by a large, fan-shaped tail of 30 to 40 feathers, which it spreads erect.

Usage Examples

• Nautical Context:
  • The sailors gathered on the fantail to watch the sunset.
  • The ship's design included a broad fantail that provided extra deck space at the stern.
• Ornithology Context:
  • She breeds show-quality fantails known for their perfect, spreading tails.
  • The fantail pigeon strutted, proudly displaying its distinctive tail.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to describe any object or formation that resembles a fan shape, though this is less common.
  • The peacock's display created a magnificent fantail of iridescent feathers.

Variants and Related Words

• Fantailed (adj): Having a tail or rear section that spreads out like a fan.
  • The fantailed goldfish is a popular aquarium species.

Synonyms

• Stern overhang (Nautical synonym).
• Fan-tailed pigeon (Ornithology synonym).

Different Meanings

1. Primary (Nautical): A structural part of a ship's stern.
2. Primary (Ornithology): A specific breed of domestic pigeon.
3. General/Descriptive: Any fan-shaped tail or rear extension (e.g., on certain birds, fish, or even aircraft designs).

Noun

1. an overhang consisting of the fan-shaped part of the deck extending aft of the sternpost of a ship