English Reference
noun

wings

n.
US /ˈwɪŋz/ UK /wˈɪŋz/ wings

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    the parts of a bird, insect, or airplane that allow it to fly.

    the paired appendages or lateral structures used by birds, insects, and aircraft to generate lift for flight.

    Simple

    The eagle spread its massive wings and soared high above the valley.

    In context

    The aircraft's wings were engineered with a slight sweep to reduce drag while maintaining stability at high cruising altitudes.

    airfoilspinions
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    the areas at the sides of a stage where actors wait to go on.

    the off-stage spaces to the left and right of the acting area, typically hidden from the audience's view by curtains.

    Simple

    The nervous actor waited in the wings for his cue to enter.

    In context

    Stagehands hurried through the wings, repositioning heavy props during the brief blackout between the first and second acts.

    backstageoff stage
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    parts of a large building that stick out from the main middle part.

    lateral extensions or subordinate sections of a large building, often designated by their direction or purpose.

    Simple

    The hospital added two new wings to provide more space for patients.

    In context

    The west wing of the palace houses the royal library and several private galleries that are rarely open to the public.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary Cooking

    the wings of a chicken cooked as a snack or meal.

    the forelimbs of a chicken, typically served fried or roasted as a popular appetiser.

    Simple

    We ordered a large plate of spicy buffalo wings to share.

    In context

    The chef marinated the wings in a blend of honey and soy sauce before grilling them to a crisp finish.

    chicken wings
This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated