water wings

American  

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. an inflatable contrivance shaped like a pair of wings, usually worn under the arms to keep the body afloat while one swims or learns to swim.

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water wings British  

plural noun

1. an inflatable rubber device shaped like a pair of wings, which is placed round the front of the body and under the arms of a person learning to swim

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Etymology

Origin of water wings

First recorded in 1900–10

Example Sentences

Eventually the family was forced to climb on top of their kitchen cabinets - they put water wings on their 1-year-old - and were rescued the next day by boat.

From Washington Times • Oct. 7, 2022

Eventually the family was forced to climb on top of their kitchen cabinets — they put water wings on their 1-year-old — and were rescued the next day by boat.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 7, 2022

The part of me that squeals at the sight of any furry, scaly or feathered face was ready to don water wings; my animal-rights half had a thumb on the veto button.

From Washington Post • Apr. 23, 2015

But these practices also serve as giant, scholastic water wings for people who should really be swimming by now.

From Slate • Jun. 15, 2014

Esme, water wings and all, came trotting along the pool’s edge to them.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman