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preen: Meaning and Definition of
preen
Pronunciation: (pr?n), [key] ? v.t.
- (of animals, esp. birds) to trim or dress (feathers, fur, etc.) with the beak or tongue: The peacock preened itself on the lawn.
- to dress (oneself&hasp;) carefully or smartly; primp: The king preened himself in his elaborate ceremonial robes.
- to pride (oneself&hasp;) on an achievement, personal quality, etc.: He preened himself on having been graduated with honors.
?v.i. - 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
Pronunciation: (pr?n), [key] ? n. Chiefly Brit. Dial.
- a pin or brooch.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.