What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
feathers
Example
The peacock has beautiful feathers. [feathers: noun]
Example
The bird preened its feathers. [feathers: plural noun]
plumage
Example
The male cardinal has bright red plumage. [plumage: noun]
Example
The ornithologist studied the bird's plumage to identify its species. [plumage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Feathers is more common than plumage in everyday language and can be used in various contexts, including fashion and crafts. Plumage is less common and is typically used in scientific or ornithological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between feathers and plumage?
Plumage is more formal and technical than feathers, which is more neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
