Meaning of the word preening in English
What does preening mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
preening
US /ˈpriːnɪŋ/
UK /ˈpriːnɪŋ/
Noun
1.
the action of a bird smoothing and cleaning its feathers with its beak
Example:
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We watched the swan's careful preening by the lake.
•
The bird spent a long time preening its feathers.
2.
the act of spending time making oneself look attractive and admiring one's appearance
Example:
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Her constant preening in front of the mirror was annoying.
•
He spent hours on his hair, a clear sign of his daily preening ritual.
Adjective
displaying excessive vanity or self-admiration
Example:
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He gave a preening smile after winning the award.
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Her preening attitude made her unpopular with her colleagues.
Related Word: