Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Torelli is a great physical comic; even in wrist restraints, she preens.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2024

Rikers is in a city that preens about its progressiveness.

From Washington Post • Feb. 3, 2023

The title character of “Carlos” broods and preens over his determination to be a revolutionary outlaw hero.

From New York Times • Jun. 18, 2020

Robotnik preens, seethes, and contorts his face to spit out condescending sarcasm with all the psychology of a Saturday morning cartoon baddie.

From Slate • Feb. 14, 2020

He preens on the railing, raising his beak majestically, fluffing his feathers.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman