Unplume

v. [UN-² 4. Cf. Du. ontpluimen.]

  1.  trans. To strip of plumes or feathers. Also in fig. context.

1587.  Greene, Carde of Fancie (1593), I 3 b. He would vnplume thee of all his feathers, that like Æsops Crow thou mightest receiue the reward of thy rashnesse.

1608.  L. Machin, Dumbe Knt., I. Envies sword, Which like a rasor shall unplume thy crest.

1673.  Lady’s Call., I. i. § 28. Should we have the like distinction observed, I fear many of our gaiest birds would be unplumed.

1744.  H. Brooke, Love & Van., 95. She … Exalts the meek…; Of Pride unplumes the lofty crest.

1804.  Charlotte Smith, Conversations, etc., II. 202. The nest is robbed, and she a second time unplumes herself for the accommodation of her young.

1841.  Lady 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.

1626.  T. H[awkins], trans. Caussin’s Holy Crt., 82. Ladyes of court vnplume him, other women … filch from him.

1641.  J. Shute, Sarah & Hagar (1649), 55. God can soon unplume us, and take away that which swelleth us so.

1725.  Pope, Odyss., XIX. 104. Her lov’d Lord [may] unplume thy tow’ring pride.

1744.  E. 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 Unpluming vbl. sb.

1592.  Nashe, P. Pennilesse, E 2 b. We delight … in the vnpluming of pullerie, and quartering of Calues and Oxen.