Feathery: meaning, definitions and examples

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feathery

[ˈfɛðəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

soft

Resembling or covered with feathers; light, soft, and fluffy in texture.

Synonyms

downy, fluffy, soft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
feathery	Use 'feathery' to describe something that has the lightness and delicateness of feathers. It's often used to describe visual or physical characteristics that resemble feathers. The feathery branches of the willow tree swayed gently in the wind
fluffy	Use 'fluffy' to describe something that is soft, light, and airy. It is often used for things like clouds, animals, or baked goods. The child hugged a fluffy teddy bear
downy	Use 'downy' to describe something that is soft and has a texture like down feathers, usually more associated with a finer, more delicate softness. The baby chick was covered in downy feathers
soft	Use 'soft' when you want to describe a texture that is pleasant to touch, lacking hardness or roughness. It is a more general term compared to the others. The blanket felt soft against her skin

Examples of usage

The bird had feathery wings that allowed it to glide effortlessly through the sky.
The feathery touch of the fabric made it ideal for a cozy blanket.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

appearance

Having a delicate or elegant appearance, like feathers.

Synonyms

delicate, elegant, graceful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
feathery	Best used to describe something light, soft, and delicate, often resembling or having the qualities of feathers. The cake had a feathery texture that melted in the mouth The feathery clouds floated gracefully across the sky
delicate	Ideal for highlighting the fragility, intricate details, or sensitivity of an object or situation. Handle the delicate porcelain vase with care Her delicate health required special attention
elegant	Appropriate for describing something or someone that is pleasingly graceful and stylish, often associated with sophistication and good taste. She wore an elegant dress to the gala The architecture of the building was both modern and elegant
graceful	Used to describe movements, actions, or objects that are smooth, elegant, and flowing, often implying beauty in motion. The ballerina's movements were graceful and captivating The swan glided gracefully across the pond

Examples of usage

Her feathery earrings added a touch of sophistication to her outfit.
The feathery patterns on the wallpaper gave the room a whimsical feel.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'feathery' comes from the Old English word 'feðer', which means 'feather'.
It entered the English language around the 14th century, originally describing things that resemble feathers.
The suffix '-y' suggests that something has the qualities of the base word, in this case, 'feather'.

Nature

Feathers are not just for flying; they also provide insulation, helping birds stay warm.
Birds have different types of feathers: contour, down, flight, and more, each serving a unique purpose.
Some species, like the peacock, have beautifully colored and patterned feathers used for attraction during mating.

Art and Literature

In art, 'feathery' strokes can describe soft, delicate brushwork that creates a gentle feeling in a painting.
Poets often use 'feathery' to evoke softness or delicacy, painting mental images of lightness and grace.
In literature, characters are sometimes described with 'feathery' qualities to symbolize adaptability or light-heartedness.

Psychology

The texture associated with 'feathery' can evoke feelings of comfort and safety, often linked to childhood memories.
Research shows that soft textures, including 'feathery', can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation.
The visual appearance of softness can affect moods; soft items are often perceived as more approachable and friendly.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, feathers symbolize freedom, as they are associated with flight and the sky.
Feathers are used in various traditional dress and ceremonies, showcasing cultural identity and connection to nature.
The term 'feathery' extends into fashion, influencing textiles that mimic soft, light qualities for comfort and style.

Translations

Translations of the word "feathery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 plumoso

🇮🇳 पंखदार

🇩🇪 gefiedert

🇮🇩 berbulu

🇺🇦 перистий

🇵🇱 pierzysty

🇯🇵 羽毛のような

🇫🇷 plumeux

🇪🇸 plumoso

🇹🇷 tüylü

🇰🇷 깃털 같은

🇸🇦 ريشي

🇨🇿 opeřený

🇸🇰 pernatý

🇨🇳 羽毛状的

🇸🇮 pernat

🇮🇸 fjaðrandi

🇰🇿 қауырсынды

🇬🇪 ფრთიანი

🇦🇿 lələkli

🇲🇽 plumoso

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,633, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22630 bubbled
22631 presbytery
22632 straying
22633 feathery
22634 eventuality
22635 limping
22636 miser
...