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

Dictionary Entries Near uropygium

Cite this Entry

“Uropygium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/uropygium. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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