preening Meaning & Definition
What Does Preening Mean?
Preening is a verb that means to groom with the bill especially by rearranging the barbs and barbules of the feathers and by distributing oil from the uropygial gland. It is also used to mean to dress or smooth (oneself) up.
Preening at a Glance
| Part of speech | verb |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈprēn/ |
| Syllables | 1 |
Preening Definition (Verb)
- to groom with the bill especially by rearranging the barbs and barbules of the feathers and by distributing oil from the uropygial gland
- to dress or smooth (oneself) up : primp
- to pride or congratulate (oneself) on an achievement
- to make oneself sleek
- to behave or speak with obvious pride or self-satisfaction
A select few follow the lead of celebrities who … publicize their lavish lives to millions, turning Instagram into a place to preen and present a reality far above the mundane.
Verb
- pin
Synonyms of Preening
The source does not list synonyms for this entry.
Preening synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Preening
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Preening in a Sentence
A select few follow the lead of celebrities who … publicize their lavish lives to millions, turning Instagram into a place to preen and present a reality far above the mundane.
Word Forms & Grammar
preened
preen·ing
preens
preen·er noun
preen
preener
preeners
preening
preening (plural preenings)
Words That Rhyme With Preening
Origin of Preening
Middle English prenen, alteration of proynen, prunen, from Anglo-French puroindre, proindre, from pur- thoroughly + uindre, oindre to anoint, rub, from Latin unguere purchase:1, ointment
First Known Use
14th centuryt
1572
Preening Pronunciation
Preening is pronounced /ˈprēn/ and has 1 syllable.