flightless

adjective

flight·​less ˈflītlə̇s How to pronounce flightless (audio)
of a bird
: lacking the ability to fly
flightless downy young
especially : permanently unable to fly because of wing reduction accompanying evolutionary adaptation to certain specialized terrestrial habitats
used chiefly of ratite birds

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flightless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flightless. Accessed 19 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

flightless

adjective
flight·​less
ˈflīt-ləs
: unable to fly
flightless birds

More from Merriam-Webster on flightless

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!