tectrices
Definition
Noun (plural; singular: tectrix): - Zoology: The small, soft feathers that cover the body of a bird, forming the contour plumage and providing insulation, streamlining, and coloration. They are distinct from flight feathers (remiges) and tail feathers (rectrices).
Usage Examples
- (The small body feathers that cover the bird’s torso and wings.)
- (The contour feathers used for camouflage or display.)
- (The body feathers that protect against heat loss.)
Advanced Usage
- In technical ornithological writing, are further classified by their location:
- Upper wing coverts (tectrices superiores): feathers covering the upper surface of the wing.
- Under wing coverts (tectrices inferiores): feathers covering the lower surface of the wing.
- Ear coverts (tectrices auriculares): small feathers covering the ear opening of a bird.
- Nail coverts (tectrices unguales): feathers covering the base of the claws in some birds.
Variants and Related Words
- Tectrix (n, singular): one such feather.
- Each tectrix is attached to a specific feather follicle on the bird’s body. (A single contour feather.)
- Tectriform (adj): shaped like or resembling a tectrix.
- The tectriform scales of some reptiles are analogous to bird feathers. (Having a covering or roofing structure.)
- Tectriceal (adj): relating to tectrices.
- The tectriceal plumage of the peacock is highly iridescent. (Pertaining to body feathers.)
Synonyms
- Contour feathers: the general term for feathers that define the bird’s shape and color.
- Coverts: a broader term that includes tectrices and other covering feathers (e.g., wing coverts, tail coverts).
Related Idioms
- "Feather one’s nest": to enrich oneself, often through dishonesty (unrelated to tectrices directly, but uses the concept of feathers).
- The politician used public funds to feather his nest. (To accumulate personal wealth.)
Note on Usage
- The word is almost exclusively used in scientific or ornithological contexts. In everyday English, people simply say “body feathers” or “contour feathers.” The term is derived from Latin (feminine of , “one who covers”), referring to the feathers’ covering function.