Preen - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Preen means to groom or tidy oneself carefully, often used for birds smoothing their feathers with their beaks. It can also describe a person fussing over their appearance proudly.
Definition:
To groom or tidy oneself with meticulous care, often used for birds smoothing feathers.
Synonyms:
groom, primp, tidy, spruce
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
neglect, dishevel
Common Collocations:
preen feathers, preen oneself, preen proudly
Derivatives:
preener, preeningly
Usage Tips:
Use "preen" for birds grooming feathers or people fussing over appearance with pride.
Common Phrases:
preen like a peacock, preen and strut
Etymology:
From Old English "prēon" (to pin), influenced by Middle Dutch "pronien" (to show off).
Examples:
- 1. The bird stopped to preen its feathers after bathing in the pond.
- 2. She stood before the mirror to preen her hair before the party.
- 3. Peacocks often preen their vibrant tail feathers to attract mates.
- 4. He loves to preen in his new suit whenever he gets the chance.