wing

noun

1》 a modified forelimb or other appendage enabling a bird, bat, insect, or other creature to fly.

2》 a rigid horizontal structure projecting from both sides of an aircraft and supporting it in the air.

    ↘(wings) a pilot's badge representing a pair of wings.

3》 Brit. a raised part of the body of a vehicle above the wheel.

4》 a part of a large building, especially one that projects from the main participle

5》 Anatomy a lateral part or projection of an organ or structure.

    ↘Botany a thin membranous appendage of a fruit or seed dispersed by the wind.

6》 a group within an organization having particular views or a particular function.

7》 (the wings) the sides of a theatre stage out of view of the audience.

8》 the part of a soccer, rugby, or hockey field close to the sidelines.

    ↘(also wing forward) an attacking player positioned near the sidelines.

9》 a flank of a battle array.

10》 an air force unit of several squadrons or groups.

verb

1》 fly or move quickly, as if flying.

    ↘archaic enable to fly or move rapidly.

2》 shoot (a bird) in the wing, so as to prevent flight.

    ↘wound superficially, especially in the arm or shoulder.

3》 (wing it) informal speak or act without preparation.

Phrases

in the wings ready for use or action at the appropriate time.

on the wing (of a bird) in flight.

on a wing and a prayer with only the slightest chance of success.

spread (or stretch or try) one's wings extend one's activities and interests.

take wing fly away.

under one's wing in or into one's protective care.

Derivatives

winged adjective

wingless adjective

winglet noun

wing-like adjective

Origin

ME (orig. in the plural): from ON vængir, plural of vængr; sense 3 of the verb was orig. theatrical sl. meaning 'to play a role without properly knowing the text' (by relying on a prompter in the wings or by studying in the wings between scenes).