uropygial

[ yoor-uh-pij-ee-uhl ]

adjective

, Ornithology.

1. of or relating to the uropygium.

Word History and Origins

Origin of uropygial¹

First recorded in 1865–70; uropygi(um) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Among the substances produced by birds are the secretions of the uropygial gland, which may be pigmented orange, red or yellow.

From US News

The uropygial or preen gland is found in the majority of birds and is situated near the base of the tail.

From US News

They also found evidence that the birds transferred carotenoids from their uropygial gland to their feathers by rubbing their head on their neck, breast and back feathers.

From US News

They then looked for the pigments that may tinge the plumage both in the secretions of the uropygial gland and on the surface of feathers.

From US News