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View synonyms for preen
preen
1[ preen ]
verb (used with object)
- (of animals, especially birds) to trim or dress (feathers, fur, etc.) with the beak or tongue:
The peacock preened itself on the lawn.
- to dress (oneself ) carefully or smartly; primp:
The king preened himself in his elaborate ceremonial robes.
- to pride (oneself ) on an achievement, personal quality, etc.:
He preened himself on having graduated with honors.
verb (used without object)
- to make oneself appear striking or smart in dress or appearance:
No amount of careful preening will compensate for poor posture.
- to be exultant or proud.
preen
2[ preen ]
noun
Chiefly British Dialect.
- a pin or brooch.
preen
1/ priːn /
verb
- (of birds) to maintain (feathers) in a healthy condition by arrangement, cleaning, and other contact with the bill
- to dress or array (oneself) carefully; primp
- usually foll by on to pride or congratulate (oneself)
preen
2/ priːn /
noun
- a pin, esp a decorative one
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Derived Forms
- ˈpreener, noun
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Other Words From
- preen·er noun
- un·preened adjective
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Word History and Origins
Origin of preen1
Origin of preen2
before 1000; Middle English prene, Old English prēon a pin; cognate with Old Norse prjōnn pin; akin to Dutch priem, German Pfreim awl
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Word History and Origins
Origin of preen1
C14 preinen, probably from prunen to prune ³, influenced by prenen to prick, pin (see preen ²); suggestive of the pricking movement of the bird's beak
Origin of preen2
Old English prēon a pin; related to Middle High German pfrieme awl, Dutch priem bodkin
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