plumage

American  

[ploo-mij] / ˈplu mɪdʒ /

noun

1. the entire feathery covering of a bird.

2. feathers collectively.

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plumage British  

/ ˈpluːmɪdʒ /

noun

1. the layer of feathers covering the body of a bird

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plumage Scientific  

/ plo̅o̅′mĭj /

1. The covering of feathers on a bird.

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Other Word Forms

• plumaged adjective

Etymology

Origin of plumage

1375–1425; late Middle English < Middle French. See plume, -age

Example Sentences

The Franco-Belgian couturier referenced the extravagant plumage of a roseate spoonbill or the crested cockatoo alongside the humble crow, grey pigeon and magpie.

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026

From its display case in the museum’s “Stories from Mesoamerica” hall, the iridescent plumage shimmers like a rainbow encased in glass, a tropical interloper to these northern climes.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 24, 2025

A lot of my research has been on dryland birds in New Mexico, many of which have drab gray or brown plumage.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2025

The huia was a small songbird of the wattlebird family in New Zealand and was known for its jumping abilities and beautiful plumage, which is distinct for the white tip across the edge.

From BBC • May 22, 2024

Carefully, Tristran unwound the silver chain, unhooking it from the root, while stroking the bird's ruffled plumage with his left hand.

From "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman