I. ˈdau̇nē, -ni adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: down (VII) + -y
1. : like the down of a bird especially in softness and fluffiness
the downy milkweed seeds
2.
a. : having or covered with down, pubescence, or soft hairs
a downy -cheeked lad
the downy surface of a ripe peach
b. of a young bird : not yet having developed feathers other than down
3.
a. : made of down
a downy quilt
b. : soft or quiet : soothing
the downy touch of her hand
4.
[obsolete English slang down in a state of awareness (from English down ) (II) + English -y ]
slang : cunning , wary , knowing
II. adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: down (I) + -y
: being or characterized by downs
a rolling downy landscape