246 Another Word for Preening? - Preening Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say preening differently? Here are other words for preening and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.

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Meaning of preening

The primary meaning of "preening" according to Oxford Languages is to spend time making oneself look attractive or impressive.

Etymology of preening

The word "preening" originates from the Old French word "proigner" or "prenoier," which means "to preen" and is derived from the Latin word "pingere," meaning "to clean" or "to smooth."
Historically, the term "preening" was initially used to describe the action of birds cleaning and smoothing their feathers with their beaks.
Over time, the word took on a broader meaning, encompassing human behavior characterized by excessive pride, vanity, or self-absorption.

Synonyms

grooming primping preening cleaning smoothing arranging fixing styling beautifying embellishing adorning decorating ornamenting prinking pluming fussing primming smoothening tidying neatening sprucing smartening slicking polishing burnishing rubbing buffing shining gleaming sparkling glimmering glowing radiating beaming flourishing thriving prospering blooming blossoming luxuriating reveling basking gloating prideful vainglorious self-absorbed narcissistic egotistical conceited vain proud arrogant haughty superior condescending patronizing snobbish snooty high-handed overbearing domineering imperious lordly autocratic dictatorial tyrannical despotic authoritarian bossy controlling manipulative exploitative abusive tyrannizing bullying intimidating menacing threatening ominous foreboding Ominous sinister malevolent malignant hurtful damaging destructive calamitous disastrous catastrophic devastating ravaging shattering annihilating exterminating eradicating extirpating obliterating extinguishing snuffing quelling stifling suppressing repressing oppressing persecuting harassing tormenting vexing troubling distressing perturbing disquieting unsettling alarming frightening terrifying petrifying horrifying astounding astonishing shocking stunning staggering bewitching enchanting captivating enthralling mesmerizing spellbinding beguiling charming alluring enticing tempting seductive irresistible compelling overpowering overwhelming crushing overwhelming annihilating.

Definitions

To smooth and clean one's feathers with the beak, typically as a means of grooming or maintaining plumage.
To spend time making oneself look attractive or impressive, typically in a way that is considered vain or self-absorbed.
To take great pride or satisfaction in something, often in a way that is considered excessive or arrogant.

Usage Examples

The peacock was preening its vibrant plumage in preparation for the mating season.
She spent hours preening in front of the mirror, making sure every strand of hair was perfectly in place.
He was preening with pride after receiving the prestigious award for his outstanding contributions to the field.

Antonyms

humility modesty humility meekness mildness gentleness kindness compassion empathy selflessness altruism generosity magnanimity liberality charity benevolence philanthropy unselfishness self-effacement abnegation sacrifice austerity simplicity plainness unpretentiousness unassumingness diffidence timidity bashfulness shyness reserve restraint modest humble unassuming lowly meek gentle kind compassionate selfless altruistic generous magnanimous liberal charitable benevolent philanthropic unselfish self-effacing abnegating sacrificial austere simple plain unpretentious diffident timid bashful shy reserved restrained.