Cluster of feathers

The crossword question is likely a clue that requires a word to be filled in that matches the definition or description given. In this case, the definition is “cluster of feathers.” The answer to this question, according to the clue, is “TUFT.” A tuft is a small cluster or collection of feathers, hair, or other fibers that are attached or growing together. Therefore, if the crossword player had correctly guessed that the word being sought was a synonym for “cluster of feathers,” they would have filled in “TUFT” in the appropriate spaces on the puzzle grid.