feathery
UK: ˈfeðəri | US: ˈfeðəri
adj. resembling or covered with feathers; light and delicate
adj. soft, airy, or insubstantial in texture or appearance
The word "feathery" combines "feather," derived from Old English "fether," related to the lightweight, structured plumage of birds, and the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives meaning "characterized by" or "resembling." The term evolved to describe not just literal feather-like qualities but also metaphorical lightness and delicacy in texture or appearance.
The pillow had a feathery softness that made it perfect for sleeping.
Her hair floated around her face in feathery wisps.
The cake was topped with a feathery layer of whipped cream.
The dancer’s movements were light and feathery, as if she could float away.
A feathery frost covered the grass on the cold winter morning.