feathered
UK: ˈfeðəd | US: ˈfeðərd
adj. covered with feathers
adj. having the characteristics of feathers (e.g., lightness, softness)
adj. (of an arrow) fitted with feathers for flight stability
The word "feathered" derives from the Old English "fether," meaning "feather," combined with the suffix "-ed," which turns nouns into adjectives indicating possession or characteristics. Feathers have long symbolized lightness, flight, and protection, and the term evolved to describe not just literal plumage but also qualities like softness or aerodynamic design (e.g., "feathered arrow").
The bird preened its feathered wings meticulously.
Her feathered hat swayed gracefully in the breeze.
The archer selected a finely feathered arrow for the competition.
The pillow felt luxuriously soft and feathered.
Dinosaurs like the Archaeopteryx were likely feathered creatures.