Definition of alula in English:
alula
nounPlural alulae ˈaljʊləˈalyələ
technical term for bastard wing
Example sentencesExamples
- Although the alula is absent, the third finger probably had the same function in controlling separation of the upper surface airflow.
- It has pure white body feathers except for the black alulae, primary techrices and primary remiges.
- ‘The alula is essential in modern birds for low-speed flight and maneuverability,’ they wrote.
- Yearlings in the study were identified in the hand by the olivegreen (rather than blue) edges of their alulae and primary coverts.
- He discovered the vortices that are produced off the wings, and observed the alulae, or ‘thumbs’ of the wings.
Origin
Late 18th century: modern Latin, literally 'small wing', diminutive of ala.