fledge

fledge

verb \ˈflej\

fledgedfledg·ing

Definition of FLEDGE

intransitive verb

of a young bird

: to acquire the feathers necessary for flight or independent activity; also : to leave the nest after acquiring such feathers

transitive verb

1

: to rear until ready for flight or independent activity

2

: to cover with or as if with feathers or down

3

: to furnish (as an arrow) with feathers

Examples of FLEDGE

1. The young birds haven't yet fledged.

Origin of FLEDGE

fledge capable of flying, from Middle English flegge, from Old English -flycge; akin to Old High German flucki capable of flying, Old English flēogan to fly — more at fly

First Known Use: 1566

Rhymes with FLEDGE

dredge, edge, hedge, kedge, ledge, pledge, sedge, sledge, veg, wedge