1. 1. To smooth or clean (feathers) with the beak or bill.
   2. To trim or clean (fur) with the tongue, as cats do.
2. To dress or groom (oneself) with elaborate care; primp.
3. To take pride or satisfaction in (oneself); gloat.

1. To dress up; primp.
2. To swell with pride; gloat or exult.

[Middle English proinen, preinen, blend of Old French proignier, to prune. See prune², and Old French poroindre, to anoint before (por-, before , from Latin prō-; see pro-¹ + oindre, to anoint , from Latin unguere).]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.