Tail: meaning, definitions and examples

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tail

[ teɪl ]

^{Context #1}

of an animal

The hindmost part of an animal, especially when prolonged beyond the rest of the body, such as the flexible extension of the backbone in a vertebrate, the feathers at the hind end of a bird, or a terminal appendage that moves with a fish.

Synonyms

backside, hindquarters, rear end

Examples of usage

The cat wagged its tail in excitement.
The peacock displayed its colorful tail feathers.
The fish swam gracefully, its tail moving back and forth.

^{Context #2}

end of something

The rear part of an aircraft, with the tailplane and rudder.

Synonyms

back, end, rear

Examples of usage

The pilot made adjustments to the tail of the plane.
The plane's tail was painted with the company logo.

^{Context #3}

follow behind

Follow or hang behind (someone or something) closely.

Synonyms

follow, shadow, trail

Examples of usage

The dog tailed its owner as they walked through the park.
The detective tailed the suspect through the crowded streets.

Translations

Translations of the word "tail" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cauda

🇮🇳 पूंछ

🇩🇪 Schwanz

🇮🇩 ekor

🇺🇦 хвіст

🇵🇱 ogon

🇯🇵 尾

🇫🇷 queue

🇪🇸 cola

🇹🇷 kuyruk

🇰🇷 꼬리

🇸🇦 ذيل

🇨🇿 ocas

🇸🇰 chvost

🇨🇳 尾巴

🇸🇮 rep

🇮🇸 hali

🇰🇿 құйрық

🇬🇪 კუდი

🇦🇿 quyruq

🇲🇽 cola

Word origin

The word 'tail' originated from Old English 'tægl' which referred to the hindmost part of an animal. Over time, its usage expanded to include the rear part of objects such as aircraft. The verb form of 'tail' emerged in the 16th century, meaning to follow closely behind. Today, 'tail' remains a versatile word used in various contexts.

See also: tailcoat, tailor, tailored, tails.