Definition

Noun: A tail feather is one of the large, strong feathers that grow from the tail region (specifically the uropygium) of a bird. These feathers are crucial for flight control, steering, and braking.

Examples

• The peacock's magnificent tail feathers are used in its courtship display.
• The bird lost a primary tail feather during its escape from the predator.
• Ornithologists study the shape and wear of tail feathers to understand a bird's migration patterns.

Advanced Usage

• In ornithology, tail feathers are often categorized as rectrices (singular: rectrix). This term is used for precise scientific description.
  • The specimen's rectrices showed signs of molting.
• The phrase "tail feathers" can be used metaphorically in informal contexts to refer to composure or dignity.
  • The embarrassing comment really ruffled his tail feathers.

Variants and Related Words

• Rectrix (n): The formal ornithological term for a tail feather.
• Flight feather (n): A general category including both tail feathers (rectrices) and wing feathers (remiges).
• Uropygium (n): The fleshy, projecting part of a bird's body where the tail feathers attach.

Synonyms

• Rectrix (technical)
• Tail quill (less common)

Related Phrases

• To turn tail: To run away from something, often in fear. (This idiom references the image of an animal turning its tail to flee).
  • When the guard dog appeared, the intruder decided to turn tail.
• To get one's tail feathers in a knot: An informal, humorous idiom meaning to become overly upset or agitated.
  • Don't get your tail feathers in a knot; it's just a minor delay.

Noun

1. feather growing from the tail (uropygium) of a bird