How Do You Spell EIDERDOWN?

Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪdədˌa͡ʊn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "eiderdown" can be quite confusing due to the various sounds it contains. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ˈaɪ.də.daʊn/. The stress is on the first syllable, which contains the "ai" diphthong (/aɪ/). The second syllable has the schwa sound (/ə/), and the final syllable contains the "ow" diphthong (/aʊ/). The letters "ei" are pronounced as a diphthong (/aɪ/), which is similar to how it sounds in the word "height". Overall, the spelling of "eiderdown" can be tricky to remember, but understanding its IPA phonetic transcription can help with proper pronunciation.

EIDERDOWN Meaning and Definition

1. Eiderdown is a noun that refers to a soft and luxurious type of down, typically obtained from the female eider duck. It is known for its exceptional thermal insulation properties, making it highly sought after for bedding and upholstery purposes.

   The term "eiderdown" commonly refers to both the substance and the material made from it. The down is the soft layer of feathers found underneath the heavier external feathers of the eider duck, particularly those that use it to line their nests. These nests are constructed along coastal areas and often consist of various materials, including grass, seaweed, and feathers. Eiderdown is specifically collected from these nests during the breeding season, when the ducks vacate them.

   The remarkable thermal insulating qualities of eiderdown are due to the down's lofty and highly effective structure, which traps air and creates a warming barrier within bedding or upholstery. As a result, eiderdown is known for providing exceptional warmth and comfort during colder seasons.

   Furthermore, eiderdown is often used as a filling for duvets, comforters, and pillows due to its softness and ability to retain heat. It is valued for its lightness, as it does not feel heavy on the body while still offering significant insulation. The use of eiderdown in bedding and upholstery has long been associated with luxury and indulgence, given its rarity and high cost associated with harvesting and processing.

Common Misspellings for EIDERDOWN

• widerdown
• siderdown
• diderdown
• riderdown
• 4iderdown
• 3iderdown
• euderdown
• eaderdown
• eidardown
• eidertown
• edardown
• eederdown
• eidertdawn

Etymology of EIDERDOWN

The word "eiderdown" has its roots in Old Norse. It comes from the combination of two words: "eider" and "dun".

"Eider" refers to the eider duck, which is a type of seabird found in the northern regions of Europe, North America, and eastern Siberia. The eider duck is known for its soft and highly insulating feathers, which have been traditionally used in bedding.

The second part of the word, "down", refers to the fine, fluffy feathers found on the breast of certain birds. These down feathers are highly prized for their insulating properties and softness.

So, when combined, "eiderdown" literally means "the down of the eider duck". It refers to the luxurious and warm feather-filled bedding material made from the soft down of these ducks.

Plural form of EIDERDOWN is EIDERDOWNS