Definition

1. Noun:
   • The soft, fine feathers from a goose, used especially as insulation in bedding and clothing: "goose down" refers specifically to the layer of fine, fluffy feathers found beneath the tougher exterior feathers of a goose, prized for its exceptional warmth and lightness.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • This winter jacket is insulated with high-quality goose down. (The jacket uses the soft feathers from geese to provide warmth.)
  • She prefers pillows filled with goose down because they are so soft. (The pillows are stuffed with the soft feathers of a goose.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be like goose down": used metaphorically to describe something extremely soft and light.
  • The powder was as fine as goose down. (The powder's texture was comparable to the softness of goose feathers.)

Variants and Related Words

• Down (n): the soft, fine feathers of any bird, especially waterfowl like ducks or geese.
  • Duck down is also a common filling for comforters.
• Down-filled (adj): describing an item stuffed with down.
  • A down-filled vest is perfect for chilly evenings.

Synonyms

• Plumage (n): a bird's feathers collectively. (Note: This is a broader term that includes all feathers, not specifically the soft underlayer.)
• Underfeathers (n): the soft feathers beneath the contour feathers. (This is a descriptive synonym.)

Related Phrases

• Goose down cluster: refers to a specific, high-quality clump of down feathers.
  • The fill power measures the loft of the goose down clusters.
• Down comforter: a thick, quilted blanket filled with down.
  • They snuggled under a warm down comforter.

Related Idioms

• To be in fine feather: to be in good health or spirits. (Note: This idiom uses "feather" generally, not specifically "goose down.")
  • After a good rest, he was in fine feather.

Noun

1. down of the goose