I. ˈflej adjective
Etymology: Middle English flegge, flygge, from Old English -flycge (in unflycge not yet fledged); akin to Middle Dutch vlugge able to fly, Old High German flucki; derivative from the root of English fly
archaic : capable of or fitted for flying : feathered , fledged
II. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
intransitive verb
1.
a. of a bird : to acquire the feathers necessary for flight
b. of an insect : to attain the winged adult stage (as by metamorphosis)
2. : to attain the state of independence or competence characteristic of maturity
the newly fledged dancer
transitive verb
1. : to rear or care for (a young bird) until plumage is developed enough for flying
2.
a. : to cover with or as if with feathers or a feathery growth
your master, whose chin is not yet fledged — Shakespeare
b. : to furnish (as a nest) with a feathery covering
3. : to furnish (as an arrow) with feathers for flying