■ 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.
↘( ~s ) a pilot's badge representing a pair of ~s.
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 ~s ) 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 ~ 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 ~, so as to prevent flight.
↘wound superficially, especially in the arm or shoulder.
3》 ( ~ it ) informal speak or act without preparation.
Phrases
in the ~s ready for use or action at the appropriate time.
on the ~ (of a bird) in flight.
on a ~ and a prayer with only the slightest chance of success.
spread (or stretch or try ) one's ~s extend one's activities and interests.
take ~ fly away.
under one's ~ in or into one's protective care.
Derivatives
~ed adjective
~less adjective
~let noun
~-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 kno~ the text' (by relying on a prompter in the ~s or by studying in the ~s between scenes).