My favourite word is … СПб ГБОУ Лицeй №126 Голубицкая Алина 8в класс Преподаватель: Семина Ирина Дмитриевна

A wing is a type of fin with a surface that produces lift for flight or propulsion through the atmosphere, or through another gaseous or liquid fluid. The word "wing" from the Old Norse vængr for many centuries referred mainly to the foremost limbs of birds (in addition to the architectural aisle.) But in recent centuries the word's meaning has extended to include lift producing appendages of insects, bats, pterosaurs, boomerangs, some sail boats and aircraft, or the inverted airfoil on a race car.

In many mythologies and religions angels (spirits carrying out God’s tasks) are depicted with bird-like feather wings on their backs. Besides, a lot of mystical creatures such as fairies, dragons and elves have wings too.

* In the legend, Daedalus and Icarus created wings of wax and feathers to overcome the walls of the maze. But Icarus disobeyed his father and flew too close to the sun because of what the wax melted and Icarus fell into the sea. So the sea is now called Icarian Sea.

* In Greek mythology, Hermes is God of trade He had small wings on the sandals and his gold hat. * And the wings were in the Harpies. Harpies looked like wild creatures with wings and legs neck, long, sharp claws and a woman's head.

* Wings were rock band formed in 1971 by Paul McCartney with his wife Linda McCartney after the breakup of the Beatles.

Wings symbolize freedom. The expression "take wings" usually means the appearance of inspiration and happiness.

* on a wing and a prayer - to arrive or fly in with one's plane in very bad condition. *under someone's wing(s) - receiving someone's care and nurturing. *clip someone's wings - to restrain someone; to reduce or put an end to someone's privileges. *sprout wings - to behave so well as to resemble an angel. *wing it - to improvise; to do something extemporaneously.