GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 3 definitions

1.       
   Preen (?), n. [AS. preón a clasp, bodkin; akin to D. priem punch, bodkin, awl, G. pfriem, Icel. prjōnn a knitting needle, pin, Dan. preen a bodkin, punch.] A forked tool used by clothiers in dressing cloth.
   
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2.       
   Preen, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Preened (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Preening.] [See Preen, n.; or cf. Prune.]
   1. To dress with, or as with, a preen; to trim or dress with the beak, as the feathers; -- said of birds.  Derham.
   
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   2. To trim up, as trees. [Prov. Eng.]  Halliwell.
   
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   3. Hence: To dress (oneself) carefully or stylishly; to primp.
   
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   4. To pride (oneself) on one's accomplishments; to congratulate (oneself).
   
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3.       
   Preen, v. i. To dress up neatly and smartly; to make oneself well-groomed and well-dressed.
   
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   2. To feel proud of one's achievement; to swell or gloat.
   
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