bastard wing: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “bastard wing” mean?
A small, feathered projection on the wing of a bird, specifically the alula or group of feathers attached to the bird's thumb bone.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, feathered projection on the wing of a bird, specifically the alula or group of feathers attached to the bird's thumb bone.
In ornithology, a term for the alula—a small, freely moving group of feathers on the anterior edge of a bird's wing that aids in flight control at low speeds and during landing. In broader, informal contexts, it can metaphorically refer to any small, non-standard, or rudimentary appendage or addition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage; the term is equally technical and rare in both varieties.
Connotations
In both varieties, the primary connotation is strictly biological/technical. The potentially offensive nature of the word 'bastard' is not foregrounded in this fixed compound within its specialist domain.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, confined to ornithological texts and discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “bastard wing” in a Sentence
The [bird] uses its bastard wing for [purpose].The [specific bird species] has a prominent bastard wing.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bastard wing” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The kestrel deployed its bastard wing to stabilise its hover.
American English
- The anatomy text described the bastard wing in detail.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used only in specific biological/zoological/ornithological papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary domain of use; precise anatomical term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bastard wing”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bastard wing”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bastard wing”
- Using it in general conversation.
- Misunderstanding it as a derogatory term for a wing rather than a specific anatomical feature.
- Pronouncing 'bastard' in an overly emphatic or colloquial way in a scientific context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not in its technical, ornithological context. It is a standard, neutral anatomical term. However, due to the general meaning of 'bastard', it should be used cautiously and only within its proper scientific domain to avoid misunderstanding.
It acts like a leading-edge slat on an aircraft wing, helping to maintain smooth airflow over the wing at high angles of attack (e.g., during slow flight or landing), thereby preventing stalling.
No. It is a highly specialized term. In everyday conversation, it would be confusing and sound odd. Use 'alula' if speaking technically, or simply describe it as 'the small feathers on the front of the wing' in general terms.
Most flying birds possess an alula (bastard wing). It is particularly well-developed in birds that require precise slow-speed flight control, such as birds of prey and many perching birds.
A small, feathered projection on the wing of a bird, specifically the alula or group of feathers attached to the bird's thumb bone.
Bastard wing is usually technical/specialized in register.
Bastard wing: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɑːstəd wɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbæstərd wɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a bird with a small, 'illegitimate' extra wing (a bastard wing) sticking out near its thumb, helping it steer.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SUPPLEMENTARY/IMPERFECT FEATURE IS A BASTARD WING (e.g., 'The software's add-on module was a kind of bastard wing—useful in specific cases but poorly integrated').
Practice
Quiz
What is the 'bastard wing'?