What does plumage mean?
Plumage means the feathers of a bird collectively, particularly the covering that forms the visible outfit of its body. The word is often used when discussing the colors, patterns, gloss, or seasonal changes of a bird's feathers, as in phrases such as “bright plumage” and “iridescent plumage.” It is more specific than the general word “feathers” because it suggests the whole feathering of an individual or species rather than a loose collection of feathers. Plumage is especially useful in ornithology, wildlife description, and field-guide writing, where fine distinctions in appearance can help identify birds or explain how they communicate and conceal themselves. The word is generally formal but not technical, and it carries a mild visual emphasis on the overall appearance created by feathers. A single feather may be called a plume, while plumage refers to the complete feathered covering.
nounThe feathers of a bird collectively, especially the feathers covering its body. The term can also refer to the characteristic feathering of a particular species or individual.
- The feathers of a bird collectively, especially those covering its body.
"The peacock's brilliant plumage made it the most conspicuous bird in the garden."
"The male bird uses its vivid plumage to attract a mate."
"Researchers compared the seasonal changes in the species' plumage."
The plural is grammatically possible but rarely used; plumage is normally treated as a collective or mass noun.
"The museum's display compares the plumages of several rare birds."
A bird's plumage is its wearable wardrobe: an entire ensemble of feathers that can signal identity, attract a mate, or provide camouflage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does plumage come from?
The English word comes from French plumage, meaning “feathers” or “feathering,” which developed from plume. Plume itself comes through French from Latin pluma, the Latin word for feather. Related English forms include plumule, a small or down feather, and plumaceous, meaning feather-like or of feathers.
Related word forms
How plumage is actually used
Usually treated as a mass or collective noun. The singular form is standard even when referring to the feathering of one bird; the plural is possible but uncommon.
Easily confused with plumage
A plume is a single feather or a small cluster of feathers, whereas plumage refers to a bird's entire feathering collectively.