Barbicels

/ˈbɑrbɪˌsɛlz/ noun

Definition

The plural form of barbicel; multiple tiny branch-like structures on feather barbs.

Etymology

Simple plural of barbicel, maintaining the Latin-derived singular form with standard English pluralization.

Kelly Says

Humming birds have some of the most densely packed barbicels of any bird—their feather structure is so tight that it creates iridescent colors by splitting light, which is why they shimmer so brilliantly.

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