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pelage

noun
pel·​age | \ ˈpe-lij How to pronounce pelage (audio) \

Definition of pelage

: the hairy covering of a mammal
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Synonyms for pelage

Synonyms

coat, fleece, fur, hair, jacket, pile, wool

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Examples of pelage in a Sentence

color variation in the snow leopard's pelage

Recent Examples on the Web

 Even among its relatives, the Indian giant squirrel stands out with its vibrant colors, which makes one wonder why evolution would select for pelage, or fur, that would call so much attention to itself. — Jason Bittel, National Geographic, "Giant purple squirrels do exist—and they have an odd behavior," 4 Apr. 2019 His blond, fuzzy natal pelage has given way to the lush, chocolate brown coat of an adult. — Lynda V. Mapes, The Seattle Times, "From Seattle to Vancouver: See how Rialto the otter, once near death, is thriving," 24 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pelage.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of pelage

1734, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for pelage

French, from Middle French, from poil hair, from Old French peil, from Latin pilus

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More Definitions for pelage

pelage

noun
pel·​age | \ ˈpel-ij How to pronounce pelage (audio) \

Medical Definition of pelage

: the hairy covering of a mammal

More from Merriam-Webster on pelage

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pelage

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pelage

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