Pelage: meaning, definitions and examples

Duplicate entry. See the first 'pelage' for details.

Talking about the soft hair of certain animals, often in the context of pets or fur as a material for clothing. It has a comforting and soft connotation.

• The cat’s fur is very soft.
• She wore a fur coat to the event.

General conversation about an animal’s outer covering. Can also refer to layers of paint or other substances.

• The dog has a shiny coat.
• Apply a second coat of paint for better coverage.

Referring to the strands growing on humans or animals. It is a more common term that can be used in a wide range of contexts.

• Her hair is long and curly.
• The horse has a thick mane of hair.

Pelage is typically used in scientific or zoological contexts to describe the fur or hair covering of mammals.

• The dense pelage of the snow leopard helps it survive in cold environments.
• Studies on the pelage of different animals reveal insights into their evolutionary adaptations.

Hairs is a more specific term used to refer to the individual strands that make up the fur or hair on animals or humans. It is commonly used in daily conversation.

• Stray hairs were found on the couch.
• She brushed her long, brown hairs every morning.

Covering is a general term used to refer to any material or layer that acts as a protective or concealing layer over something. It is not limited to animals and can be used in various contexts.

• The soft covering of the blanket kept the baby warm.
• A thick layer of snow served as a natural covering for the landscape.

Fuzz refers to fine, light fibers or threads that are soft, usually appearing on surfaces and often related to children's toys or the early stages of hair growth.

• The peaches were covered in a light fuzz.
• The newborn chick had a layer of yellow fuzz.