fletching

1 of 2

noun

fletch·​ing ˈfle-chiŋ How to pronounce fletching (audio)
: the feathers on an arrow
also : the arrangement of such feathers

fletching

2 of 2

present participle of fletch

Examples of fletching in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Instead of feathers, the traditional fletching at the rear end of an arrow, Case uses fragments from a safety razor blade. — Patrick Cooke, Smithsonian Magazine, 19 Nov. 2021 Add in fletching and nocks, and the whole setup weighs 475 grains, which is about the sweet spot for me at 28 inches and 60 pounds. — Field & Stream, 23 Nov. 2020 Just stack it up and wrap it on top of itself, making sure the front of the fletching is covered with enough string and glue so that the sharp ends of the feather quills aren’t poking out. — Tim MacWelch, Outdoor Life, 12 Oct. 2020 Use clear fletching cement or instant glue to attach a nock to the tapered end of the shaft. — Andrew Del-Colle, Popular Mechanics, 16 Aug. 2020 Also, no broadheads are allowed and all arrows must have flu-flu fletching to limit flight. — Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 3 Mar. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fletching was in 1831

Rhymes for fletching

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Browse Nearby Words

Fletcher scale
fletching
flether
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Cite this Entry

“Fletching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fletching. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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