Definition of wing
1 a
: one of the movable feathered or membranous paired appendages by means of which a bird, bat, or insect is able to fly;
also
: such an appendage even though rudimentary if possessed by an animal belonging to a group characterized by the power of flight
b
: any of various anatomical structures (as of a flying fish or flying lemur) providing means of limited flight
2
: an appendage or part resembling a wing in appearance, position, or function: such as
a
: a device worn under the arms to aid a person in swimming or staying afloat
b
: ala
c
: a turned-back or extended edge on an article of clothing
d
: a sidepiece at the top of an armchair
e (1)
: a foliaceous, membranous, or woody expansion of a plant especially along a stem or on a samara or capsule
(2)
: either of the two lateral petals of a papilionaceous flower
f
: a vane of a windmill or arrow
g
: sail
h
: an airfoil that develops a major part of the lift which supports a heavier-than-air aircraft
3
: a means of flight or rapid progress
4
: the act or manner of flying : flight
- take wing
5
: a side or outlying region or district
6
: a part or feature of a building usually projecting from and subordinate to the main or central part
- the servants' wing
7 a
: one of the pieces of scenery at the side of a stage
b
wings plural
: the area at the side of the stage out of sight
8 a
: a left or right section of an army or fleet : flank
b
: one of the offensive positions or players on either side of a center position in certain team sports;
also
: flanker
9 a
: either of two opposing groups within an organization or society : faction
b
: a section of an organized body (such as a legislative chamber) representing a group or faction holding distinct opinions or policies — compare left wing, right wing
10 a
: a unit of the U.S. Air Force higher than a group and lower than a division
b
: two or more squadrons of naval airplanes
11
: a dance step marked by a quick outward and inward rolling glide of one foot
12
wings plural
: insignia consisting of an outspread pair of stylized bird's wings which are awarded on completion of prescribed training to a qualified pilot, aircrew member, or military balloon pilot
—
in the wings
1
: out of sight in the stage wings
2
: close at hand in the background : readily available
- had a plan waiting in the wings
—
under one's wing
: under one's protection : in one's care
- took her under his wing
