What does PLUME mean?

Parts of Speech: noun, verb

Definitions:

• As a noun, plume refers to a long, soft feather or arrangement of feathers, especially as used by a bird for display or worn as a decoration. It can also refer to a large and conspicuous feather or cluster of feathers, or a cloud of smoke or dust resembling a feather.
• As a verb, plume means to spread out in a shape resembling a feather or plume, or to emit or give off in a plume-like manner, especially smoke or gas.

Pronunciations:

• US: /pluːm/
• UK: /pljuːm/

Origin and Usage: The word plume comes from the Old French word plume, meaning "feather," which is derived from the Latin word pluma. The noun form of plume has been used since the 14th century, while the verb form has been used since the 16th century. Plume has been used in literature to describe feathers and birds, and is also used in the military to describe a long, ornamental feather worn on a hat or helmet.

Synonyms: feather, quill, tuft, crest, spray, cloud, puff, fume, vapor

Related Words: flame, gloom, plump, prune, serum

Example Sentences:

• The peacocks plume was a magnificent sight.
• The soldier wore a plume on his helmet.
• The smoke from the fire rose in a plume into the sky.
• The volcano erupted, sending a plume of ash and smoke into the air.