Small-winged

The adjective 'small-winged' describes an organism, particularly a bird or insect, that possesses wings that are proportionally smaller than those of similar species or other members of the same species. This size disparity often affects the creature's flight capabilities, potentially reducing agility, speed, and endurance. It can also imply a limited wingspan in comparison to body size, which is an important aspect in maintaining lift during flight. The term is primarily used in biological or zoological contexts, detailing variations in anatomy and their functional consequences.

Small-winged meaning with examples

• The ornithologist noted the newly discovered species of hummingbird displayed unusually small-winged characteristics. This reduced wingspan may contribute to its distinctive, almost hovering flight style, which sets it apart from similar species known for their quick, sweeping maneuvers around the flowers it feeds on.
• Despite their vibrant coloration, the small-winged butterflies struggled against the strong winds. The reduced surface area offered by their wings, coupled with their light bodies, made it difficult for them to maintain stability in the gusts, and they were pushed significantly off course.
• Researchers observed that the genetically modified fruit flies exhibited small-winged traits. This alteration impacted the insects' maneuverability in tight spaces. This had implications for how easily these insects could access food sources and escape predators.
• The insect's tiny size was compounded by its small-winged structure. Its underdeveloped wings meant it was unable to travel far and became an easy target for various predators. The wing configuration also gave the insect an unstable fluttering flight pattern.
• A bird's flight performance correlated closely with wing size; the data clearly demonstrated the influence of having small-winged morphology in the study group. Those birds with smaller wings had to flap more vigorously to achieve the same amount of lift than the birds that had a fuller wing-set.