- The term wing is reapplied in a metaphorical sense to the upper portion of a person’s arm. The wings of a bird are physiologically located in the same position as the upper arms of a human being. Therefore, the term ‘wing,’ which most often applies to birds and animals that can fly, is connected to the anatomy of a human being based on resemblance and similarities between the two objects. The speaker created this term in an attempt relate the subject to a visual reference, therefore communicating his ideas more effectively.
Wing
noun; other word formation type metaphor
the fat tissue near the bicep and tricep muscles along a person’s upper arm
Etymology : from the old Norse word, ‘wenge,’ referring to the “wing of a bird, aisle, etc.” (from Online Etymology Dictionary)
Source : “My wings aren’t going to fit into my new jacket if I gain the freshman 15.” –conversation with a friend (September, 2011)
Last modified: 3 December 2011