First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1preen
noun \ˈprēn\
Definition of PREEN
1
dial chiefly British : pin
2
dial chiefly British : brooch
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Origin of PREEN
Middle English prene, from Old English prēon; akin to Middle High German pfrieme awl
2preen
verb
3preen
verb
Definition of PREEN
transitive verb
1
of a bird : to groom with the bill especially by rearranging the barbs and barbules of the feathers and by distributing oil from the uropygial gland
2
: to dress or smooth (oneself) up : primp
3
: to pride or congratulate (oneself) on an achievement
intransitive verb
1
: to make oneself sleek
2
: to behave or speak with obvious pride or self-satisfaction
— preen·er noun
PREEN Defined for Kids
preen
verb \ˈprēn\
preenedpreen·ing
Definition of PREEN for Kids
1
: to smooth and clean with the bill <The sparrow preened its feathers.>
2
: to make a person's own appearance neat and tidy <He preened himself in front of the mirror.>
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