1. cleaned and arranged feathers with the beak
Usage: past tense of preen
2. showed excessive pride in oneself or one’s achievements
Usage: past tense of preen; often followed by ‘over’

Examples

• The swan preened its white feathers by the lake.
• The peacock preened in the morning sunlight.
• She preened over her perfect test score.
• He preened in front of the mirror before the party.
• The actor preened backstage after receiving applause.
• The cat preened itself after eating.
• She preened over her promotion at work.