FEATHERLESS Meaning and
Definition
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Featherless is an adjective that describes the absence or lack of feathers. Feathers are specialized structures that typically cover the outer surface of birds, providing insulation, protection, and aiding in flight. However, in the context of being featherless, it indicates the complete or partial removal of feathers, rendering the organism without its typical plumage.
In a literal sense, featherless can refer to animals or birds, particularly those that have either lost their feathers due to natural or artificial causes. A bird might experience feather loss as a result of molting, disease, or injury. Featherless birds may have a distinct appearance, with exposed skin or bare patches where feathers should be present.
Figuratively, featherless can also be used to characterize the lack of certain features or attributes in various contexts beyond the avian realm. It can describe objects, such as a featherless arrow, meaning it lacks the usual fletching that aids its stability during flight. Or it can be used metaphorically in human contexts, such as describing someone as emotionally or figuratively featherless, meaning they lack the usual resilience or buoyancy associated with having a support system or coping mechanisms in challenging situations.
Overall, featherless refers to the condition of lacking feathers, whether literal or metaphorical, and provides a clear characterization of the absence of these important biological structures.
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Having few or no feathers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for FEATHERLESS
Etymology of FEATHERLESS
The word "featherless" consists of the root "feather" combined with the suffix "-less".
The term "feather" originates from the Middle English word "federe" which evolved from the Old English word "fether". "Fether" is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fethrō" which has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "*pat-ro-". This ancient root is believed to imitate the sound of feather movement, indicating its descriptive origin.
The suffix "-less" is derived from the Old English suffix "-leas" which means "without" or "lacking". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "*laisaz". This suffix is widely used in English to negate or express the absence of the root word to which it is attached.
Similar spelling words for FEATHERLESS
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