plume

The definition of a plume is a feather or a group of feathers, or a cloud of material spreading from its source.

(noun)

A large, full feather from an ostrich that you wear in your hat is an example of a plume.
A cloud of smoke coming from someone who is smoking a cigarette is an example of a plume of smoke.

To plume means to decorate with a feather, or to spread out from a source.

(verb)

Adding a large turkey feather to a hat is an example of a way to plume a hat.
When smoke billows out in waves from a factory, this is an example of when smoke plumes.

See plume in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

1. a feather, esp. a large, fluffy, or showy one
2. a cluster of such feathers
an ornament made of a large feather or feathers, or of a feathery tuft of hair, esp. when worn on a hat, helmet, etc. as a mark of distinction
any token of worth or achievement; prize
plumage or down
something like a plume in shape or lightness: a plume of smoke
Biol. a featherlike formation or part
Geol. a plume-shaped mass of molten rock that rises through the crust from the mantle of the earth and causes volcanic activity

Origin: OFr < L pluma, downy part of a feather, small soft feather < IE base *pleus-, to pluck out, fluff of wool, hair > fleece

transitive verb plumed, pluming

to provide, cover, or adorn with plumes
1. to smooth the feathers of (itself)
2. to preen (its feathers): said of a bird
to pride (oneself)

See plume in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A feather, especially a large and showy one.
A large feather or cluster of feathers worn as an ornament or symbol of rank, as on a helmet.
A token of honor or achievement.
A structure or form that is like a long feather: a plume of smoke.
Ecology A space in air, water, or soil containing pollutants released from a point source.
Geology An upwelling of molten material from the earth's mantle.

transitive verb plumed plumed, plum·ing, plumes

To decorate, cover, or supply with or as if with plumes.
To smooth (feathers); preen.
To congratulate (oneself) in a self-satisfied way: plumed himself on his victory.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Latin plūma

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