1. (

• preen ,
• plume

) clean with one's bill; "The birds preened" ;

2. (

• preen ,
• congratulate ,

) pride or congratulate (oneself) for an achievement ;

3. (

• preen ,
• primp ,
• plume ,
• dress ,

) dress or groom with elaborate care; "She likes to dress when going to the opera" ;