uropygium

noun

uro·​py·​gi·​um ˌyu̇r-ə-ˈpī-jē-əm How to pronounce uropygium (audio)
: the fleshy and bony prominence at the posterior extremity of a bird's body that supports the tail feathers

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek ouropygion, from ouro- ur- entry 2 + pygē rump

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of uropygium was in 1771

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Cite this Entry

“Uropygium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/uropygium. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

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