The spelling of the phrase "flew down" is relatively straightforward when using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word "flew" is pronounced as /flu/ with the "f" sound followed by a "l" sound that leads into a "yoo" sound. The word "down" is pronounced as /daʊn/ with a "d" sound followed by an "ou" sound and a nasalized "n" sound at the end. Together, "flew down" is pronounced as /flu daʊn/ with a slight pause between the two words.
"Flew down" is a term that can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Firstly, "flew down" can refer to the action of a bird or any creature with wings rapidly descending or flying swiftly downwards. In this sense, it signifies the motion of a bird or an object quickly moving from a higher level or position to a lower one by making use of wings or flight. This definition is particularly relevant when it is used to describe the action of a bird, as it conveys the image of a bird descending from a height or taking off from a perch.
Secondly, "flew down" can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of hastily or abruptly descending or moving downwards, typically with a sense of urgency or suddenness. This usage often implies a swift and purposeful action, such as rushing down a flight of stairs or swiftly descending from a higher level to a lower one while in a state of excitement or urgency.
Overall, the term "flew down" denotes the action of descending swiftly or abruptly, either literally as in the movement of a bird using its wings, or figuratively to describe a quick and urgent downward movement.
The phrase "flew down" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words.
The word "flew" originates from Old English "fleogan", which means "to fly". It has Germanic roots and is related to the Old High German word "fliogan" and Old Norse word "fljúga".
The word "down" has its origins in Old English "dūn", which means "hill" or "a downy covering", and is related to the Old High German word "tūn" and Old Norse word "dúnn", both of which mean "down", referring to the soft feathers of birds. "Down" is also used as a preposition, indicating movement towards a lower or lower-level position.
When combined, the phrase "flew down" describes the action of flying downward or descending from a higher position.