pelage

Definition of pelagenext
as in wool
the hairy covering of a mammal especially when fine, soft, and thick color variation in the snow leopard's pelage

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pelage However, multiple studies over the past 50 years have highlighted the distinctions between different types of giraffe based on their pelage patterns, cranial and postcranial morphology, genetics, ecology, and behavior. Grrlscientist, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 Most are taken in spring and fall when their pelage is out of sync with the current weather pattern. John Schandelmeier, Anchorage Daily News, 12 Feb. 2023 Some exhibit a pale gray pelage similar to western coyotes, but others are blond, red, and even black. Popular Science, 12 Mar. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pelage
Noun
  • To stay warm on cold days, Abrams and others at Flylow layer the TC over a wool or polyester flannel.
    Jakob Schiller, Outside, 19 Mar. 2026
  • The cover is made from breathable, natural cotton and is followed by a layer of flame-retardant wool for optimal cooling properties.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 19 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Underwood, with wet hair and wearing a towel around his neck from the postgame celebration, said the Illini were going to enjoy Saturday’s win for a night.
    Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026
  • Children can be seen monkeying around the billiards table, and the surrounding area offers plenty of activities to suit the whole gang—from hiking and boat tours to hair-raising seaplane adventures.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Say hello to your new transitional coat, the style that proves simplicity is the ultimate form of elegance.
    Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 20 Mar. 2026
  • This mid-Cretaceous omnivore was still actively growing and may have sported a coat of soft, fuzzy filaments, giving it a physical appearance similar to that of a small lamb.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 19 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pelage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pelage. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.

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