wing etymology

Etymology:

The word "wing" comes from the Old English word "weng," which likely originates from the Proto-Germanic word "*wengan-," meaning "to flap, or waver."

Meaning:

  • A limb or structure that allows birds, bats, and certain insects to fly.
  • A projecting part or extension of something, such as the wing of a building or an airplane.
  • A division or section of an organization or movement.
  • An act or gesture that resembles the motion of a bird's wing, such as a graceful handwave.

Origin:

The concept of a wing as a flight-enabling structure likely originated with early observations of birds in flight. As humans sought to conquer the skies, they borrowed the term "wing" to describe the artificial structures that enabled their aircrafts to fly.

Additional Notes:

  • The term "wing" can also be used figuratively to refer to things that provide support or enable flight, such as a "wingman" or a "wind beneath someone's wings."
  • The word "wing" has cognates in many other Germanic languages, such as "winge" in Dutch and "vinge" in German.
  • In some contexts, "wing" can also refer to a section of a stage or theater where actors enter or exit.

wing relate terms

  • feather

    Etymology Middle English federe from Old English feder Proto West Germanic feðiraz

  • winged

    Etymology The word winged comes from the Old English word wegned which is derived f

  • wing

    Etymology The word wing comes from the Old English word weng which likely originate

  • wingnut

    Etymology The term wingnut originated in the early 20th century and is a combination of

  • flank

    Etymology Old English flænc side from Proto Germanic flaŋkaz flank Related to Go

  • aisle

    Etymology Old French ale plural alee Latin ala wing Meaning Aisle refers to

  • orthopterous

    Etymology Greek orthos straight upright pteron wing Meaning Orthopterous

  • chitin

    Etymology Ancient Greek χιτών chitōn meaning tunic Meaning A tough fl

  • travel

    Etymology The English word travel derives from the Old French word travailler which

  • airplane

    Etymology Old French avion c 13th century Medieval Latin avis bird Meaning

  • place

    Etymology The word place originates from the Latin word platea which means broad