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Plume Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plume

plume

🇺🇸 /ˈpɫum/ · 🇬🇧 /plˈuːm/

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

writing instrument

A feather or cluster of feathers used as a decoration or ornament, especially on a hat or helmet.

Synonyms

decoration, feather, ornament.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier's helmet was adorned with a plume of colorful feathers.
  • She wore a stylish hat with a large plume on the side.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

A long, feather-like cloud of smoke or vapor.

Synonyms

cloud, smoke, vapor.

Examples of usage

  • The volcano erupted, sending a plume of ash high into the sky.
  • The factory emitted a plume of toxic gases into the atmosphere.
Context #3 | Verb

to decorate

To decorate or adorn with feathers or something similar.

Synonyms

adorn, decorate, embellish.

Examples of usage

  • The dancers plumed their costumes with colorful feathers.
  • She plumed the hat with a cluster of peacock feathers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Quick facts about “plume”

Plume is a 1-syllable noun and verb. It is pronounced /ˈpɫum/ in American English and /plˈuːm/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 3 meanings, 9 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #12,654 among the most common English words.

Did you know?

“plume” in nature

  • Plumes are often used in the animal kingdom for attraction, where birds display colorful plumes to impress mates.
  • Certain types of jellyfish have plume-like tentacles that flow gracefully in the water, which can sting if touched.

“plume” in art

  • In the arts, plume motifs are often associated with elegance and freedom, appearing in paintings and sculptures.
  • Feathers are frequently used in fashion design, contributing texture and movement in clothing and accessories.

“plume” in science

  • Geologically, a plume refers to a column of hot rock ascending from deep within the Earth, leading to volcanic activity.
  • In environmental studies, 'plume' can describe a visible cloud of pollutants moving through the air or water.

“plume” in pop culture

  • In literature, a plume can symbolize beauty or pride; for instance, characters may wear plumes to signify their status.
  • Plumes have become popular in various cultures, often seen in events like carnivals, where extravagance is celebrated.

Origin of 'plume'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pluma,' meaning feather, which is linked to softness and lightness.
  • In Middle English, 'plume' referred specifically to feathers worn for decoration or display.

The word 'plume' originated from the Latin word 'pluma', meaning feather. In the 14th century, it was first used to refer to a feather or cluster of feathers used as an ornament. Over time, the word also came to be used in geology to describe a feathery cloud of smoke or vapor. The verb form of 'plume' developed later, referring to the act of decorating with feathers. Today, 'plume' is still commonly used to describe both physical decorations and abstract formations resembling feathers.

See also: plumage.

Rhymes

Plume rhymes with abloom, legroom, whom, room, assume, tomb, boom and presume.

See all rhymes →

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,654, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.