plume

noun

A feather, especially a large and showy one.

noun

A large feather, cluster of feathers, or similar ornament worn on a helmet, hat, or horse’s harness.

noun

A token of honor or achievement.

noun

A mass or stream of material that resembles a long feather.

noun

An area or section of air, water, or soil containing pollutants released from a point source.

noun

An upwelling of molten material from the earth’s mantle.

transitive verb

To decorate, cover, or supply with a plume or plumes.

transitive verb

To smooth or clean (feathers) with the bill or beak; preen.

transitive verb

To congratulate (oneself) in a self-satisfied way.

intransitive verb

To rise or emanate in a plume.