a feather; esp., a soft, downy feather, or a long, conspicuous, or handsome feather.-an ornamental tuft of feathers.-a feather, or group of feathers, worn as an ornament; a waving ornament of hair, or other material resembling feathers.-a token of honor or prowess; that on which one prides himself; a prize or reward.-a large and flexible panicle of inflorescence resembling a feather, such as is seen in certain large ornamental grasses.-to pick and adjust the plumes or feathers of; to dress or prink.-to strip of feathers; to pluck; to strip; to pillage; also, to peel.-to adorn with feathers or plumes.-to pride; to vaunt; to boast; -- used reflexively; as, he plumes himself on his skill.