Translation guide
The feathers covering a bird's body. In Japanese, the most common word is 羽毛 (umou), but there are also more specific or poetic terms.
Referring to the collective feathers of a bird, often in a descriptive or scientific context.
That bird has beautiful plumage.
General word for feathers or wings. Can refer to plumage when context is clear, but more commonly means individual feathers or wings.
The bird's feathers are colorful.
Refers to the coat or fur of an animal, but can be used poetically for a bird's plumage, emphasizing texture and quality.
The bird's plumage is as smooth as silk.
Emphasizing the decorative or display aspect of a bird's feathers, such as in mating displays.
Referring to the soft, fluffy feathers, often used for insulation.
Using plumage metaphorically or in literary expressions.
Literary term for a robe of feathers, often used in mythology or poetry to describe a bird's plumage as a garment.
The celestial maiden's plumage shone in seven colors.
羽 (hane) can mean both 'feather' and 'wing'. To avoid ambiguity when referring to plumage, use 羽毛 (umou) for the collective feathers.
繁殖期の鳥の羽毛は鮮やかになる。
The plumage of birds becomes vivid during the breeding season.
This bird's down plumage is very warm.