CONTOUR FEATHER Meaning and
Definition
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A contour feather refers to the distinctive type of feather found on the body of birds, serving multiple vital functions. These feathers are characterized by their robust nature, providing strength and stability to the bird's body structure. They are typically located on the wings, tail, and body, ensuring a streamlined shape and enabling efficient flight.
The structure of a contour feather consists of a sturdy central shaft, known as the rachis, which provides support and strength. Extending from the rachis are countless barbs, forming a flat surface. These barbs are further connected by smaller branches called barbules, equipped with tiny hook-like structures known as barbicels. These barbules interlock, keeping the barbs connected and forming a firm and solid vane.
Contour feathers play a pivotal role in flight, as they aid in lift and maneuverability by generating airfoil shape when flapping. Additionally, they contribute to thermoregulation, insulation, and waterproofing. The fluffy down feathers located underneath the contour feathers provide insulation by trapping air close to the body, regulating temperature. Furthermore, the contour feathers help in retaining body heat due to their close arrangement.
The intricate design of contour feathers also allows birds to maintain their feather condition by preening. Preening helps a bird to keep its feathers clean, aligned, and aerodynamic by redistributing oils and removing dirt and parasites. This grooming behavior ensures that the contour feathers perform optimally in terms of flight, insulation, and protection against external elements.
Overall, contour feathers are an essential adaptation that enables birds to fly effectively and fulfill various vital functions, making them one of the distinguishing features of avian anatomy.
Common Misspellings for CONTOUR FEATHER
- xontour feather
- vontour feather
- fontour feather
- dontour feather
- cintour feather
- ckntour feather
- clntour feather
- cpntour feather
- c0ntour feather
- c9ntour feather
- cobtour feather
- comtour feather
- cojtour feather
- cohtour feather
- conrour feather
- confour feather
- congour feather
- conyour feather
- con6our feather
Etymology of CONTOUR FEATHER
The word "contour" traces its roots back to the Latin word "contus", which means "a pole" or "a stake". Over time, the term evolved to denote the shape of something, particularly the outline or silhouette. On the other hand, the term "feather" originated from the Old English word "fether", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fethrō" or "fethrā" meaning "wing or feather". So, the etymology of the word "contour feather" combines the Latin root for shape or outline and the Old English term for a wing or feather.
Similar spelling words for CONTOUR FEATHER
