preen - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

preen

|preen|

/priːn/

grooming oneself

Etymology

Etymology Information

'preen' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'preinen,' where 'preinen' meant 'to trim or dress.'

Historical Evolution

'preinen' transformed into the modern English word 'preen' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to trim or dress,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to groom or tidy oneself.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

(of a bird) to clean and arrange its feathers with its beak.

The bird sat on the branch, preening its feathers.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to spend a lot of time making yourself look attractive and then admiring your appearance.

She preened in front of the mirror before the party.

Synonyms

Examples

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45