Feathering is a seven-letter word that refers to the process of smoothing or lightening a surface by removing excess material. In phonetic transcription, the word is written as /ˈfɛðərɪŋ/ to represent its pronunciation. The first syllable /ˈfɛð/ is composed of the voiced fricative /ð/ and the unvoiced velar fricative /f/. The second syllable /ər/ is pronounced as the neutral vowel, schwa /ə/. The final syllable /ɪŋ/ ends with the nasal consonant /ŋ/.
Feathering is a term with multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. In general, feathering refers to the action of shaping, smoothing, or arranging feathers, which are the lightweight outgrowths covering the skin of birds. Feathering is often done to enhance the appearance of the bird, ensuring that its feathers are properly aligned and positioned for optimal flight and visual display.
In the context of hair styling, feathering refers to a specific technique used by hairdressers to create soft, seamless layers at the ends of the hair. It involves using cutting techniques to thin out the ends of the hair strands, creating a feather-like effect. This technique is commonly used to add dimension, movement, and texture to the hair, especially in layered styles.
In sports, feathering can refer to the technique used in certain paddle sports, such as canoeing and kayaking. This technique involves rotating the paddle in a way that minimizes resistance when entering or exiting the water, allowing for a smoother and more efficient stroke.
Feathering is also used in the context of propellers, particularly on aircraft. It refers to the action of adjusting the angle of the propeller blades to decrease their pitch and reduce drag during certain flight conditions. This helps to maintain the engine's RPM within a desired range and improve overall aircraft performance.
In summary, feathering encompasses a variety of actions, techniques, and adjustments that involve the shaping, arranging, or modifying of feathers, hair, paddles, or propellers in different fields and applications.
• A covering of feathers.
• In Goth, arch., an arrangement of small arcs or foils, separated by projecting points or cusps; the turning of an oar to enter and leave the water edgewise; a covering of feathers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "feathering" has two main etymological origins:
1. Feather (noun): The word "feather" originated from the Old English word "feaðer" which is derived from the West Germanic word "fethrōn". This Old English word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "fethrōną" and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "*pet-", meaning "feather" or "plumage".
2. Feather (verb): The verb "to feather" is derived from the noun "feather" due to its action of shaping or resembling a feather. The verb usage of "feather" in this context emerged in the late 15th century.
The word "feathering" is formed by adding the suffix "-ing" to the verb form "feather", indicating the action or process of creating a feather-like shape or pattern.