Aptal

/ˈæptəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or denoting the absence of pterygia (wing-like extensions) or feathers in birds, particularly in certain developmental stages.

Etymology

From Greek a- (without) + Latin pterygia (wings or feather tracts). This is a specialized zoological term used in ornithology to describe featherless regions or developmental stages.

Kelly Says

Newly hatched birds are aptal—they're basically tiny dinosaurs wrapped in skin, waiting for their feathers to grow in!

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