Why feathers for cowardice?

The association of feathers with cowardice likely stems from the idea that birds, which possess feathers, can easily flee from danger by taking flight. This notion has been culturally reinforced through phrases like "chicken" or "yellow," which imply fearfulness. Additionally, feathers are light and fragile, symbolizing a lack of strength or resolve. Thus, the imagery of feathers has come to represent a lack of bravery in various contexts.