Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—F

Feather One's Oar

(To.)

To feather an oar
is to turn the blade parallel with the surface of the water as the hands are moved forward for a fresh stroke. (The Greek pteron means both “an oar” and “a feather;” and the verb pteroö, to “furnish with oars” or “with feathers.”) The oar throws off the water in a feathery spray.

“He feathered his oars with such skill and dexterity.” Jolly Young Waterman.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Feather Stone
Feather One's Nest
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