preen

• Verb, das beschreibt, wie ein Vogel sein Gefieder mit dem Schnabel reinigt und ordnet, oder im übertragenen Sinn, wie sich ein Mensch sorgfältig zurechtmacht und auf sein Äußeres achtet.

A verb used to describe the act of cleaning and arranging feathers (of birds) or, figuratively, of grooming oneself with meticulous care.

1. Clean feathers with the beakB2formal

   To clean and arrange feathers using the beak, as birds do.

   Federn mit dem Schnabel putzen

   • The pigeon sat on the ledge and began to preen its feathers.
   • After bathing, the swan spent several minutes preening.
   • Birds preen to keep their feathers in good condition for flight.

   Synonymecleangroomplumesmoothtend

2. Feel self-satisfactionC1formal

   To feel or show pride in oneself, often for an accomplishment.

   Sich selbstgefällig fühlen

   • He preened himself on winning the prestigious award.
   • She preened with satisfaction after her successful presentation.
   • The team preened over their victory in the championship.

   Synonymepride oneself

3. Groom oneself meticulouslyB2informal

   To dress or groom oneself with great care and attention to detail.

   Sich sorgfältig herausputzen

   • She spent an hour preening in front of the mirror before the party.
   • He preened his hair and adjusted his tie for the interview.
   • The actor preened himself before stepping onto the red carpet.

   Synonymedress upgroomprimpspruce up

   Antonymedisarraydisheveldisorderneglectrumple