| 释义 |
unˈplume, v.
[un-2 4. Cf. Du. ontpluimen.]
1. trans. To strip of plumes or feathers. Also in fig. context.
1587Greene Carde of Fancie (1593) I 3 b, He would vn⁓plume thee of all his feathers, that like æsops Crow thou mightest receiue the reward of thy rashnesse. 1608L. Machin Dumbe Knt. i, Envies sword, Which like a rasor shall unplume thy crest. 1673Lady's Call. i. i. §28 Should we have the like distinction observed, I fear many of our gaiest birds would be unplumed. 1744H. Brooke Love & Van. 95 She..Exalts the meek..; Of Pride unplumes the lofty crest. 1804C. Smith Conversations, etc. II. 202 The nest is robbed, and she a second time unplumes herself for the accommodation of her young. 1841Lady F. Hastings Poems 212 When Time's allotted course is done, His wings unplumed, his hour-glass run.
2. fig. To deprive of distinction, prestige, etc.
1626T. H[awkins] Caussin's Holy Crt. 82 Ladyes of court vnplume him, other women..filch from him. 1641J. Shute Sarah & Hagar (1649) 55 God can soon unplume us, and take away that which swelleth us so. 1725Pope Odyss. xix. 104 Her lov'd Lord [may] unplume thy tow'ring pride. 1744E. Moore Fables xiv. 301 The partner of thy scorn'd embrace, Shall play the wanton in thy face, Each spark unplume thy little pride.
Hence unˈpluming vbl. n.
1592Nashe P. Pennilesse E 2 b, We delight..in the vn⁓pluming of pullerie, and quartering of Calues and Oxen. |