preened
|preened|
/priːn/
(preen)
grooming oneself
Etymology
'preen' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'prene' or 'prenien', where it meant 'to dress or smooth'.
'preen' changed from Middle English 'prene'/'prenien' and eventually became the modern English word 'preen' used for grooming and arranging feathers or appearance.
Initially, it meant 'to dress or smooth' in a general sense, and over time it evolved into the current senses of 'to groom (especially birds arranging feathers)' and 'to make oneself attractive or show off'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
past tense or past participle form of 'preen'.
She preened before the interview to make a good impression.
Synonyms
Verb 2
groomed oneself or another (especially a bird smoothing or arranging its feathers); cleaned or smoothed feathers or fur.
After the rain, the bird preened its feathers until they lay smoothly.
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Verb 3
primped or made oneself attractive; took pride in one's appearance, sometimes with an element of vanity or showing off.
He preened in front of the camera, adjusting his tie and smiling broadly.
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Adjective 1
neatly groomed or well cared for (used as a past-participle adjective).
She arrived looking preened and confident.
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Last updated: 2026/01/17 15:25