Crossword Genius

Was nervous about article covered in plumage (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

feathered

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'covered in plumage' is the definition.
'feathered' can be an answer for 'covered' (feathering is a kind of covering). I am unsure of the 'in plumage' bit.

'was nervous about article' is the wordplay.
'was nervous' becomes 'feared' (being nervous can mean being afraid).
'about' indicates putting letters inside.
'article' becomes 'the' (the definite article in English).
'feared' placed around 'the' is 'FEATHERED'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for feathered that I've seen before include "Like bird" , "like a tumbler?" , "Birds are described as fine . . . . . . . . . friends" , "head of dodo, thus?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app