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.

He was preening for the press, warming to another of his vicious, incoherent jeremiads when his Canadian host suggested he join the others in a bit of work.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2025

By then, L.A. was preening itself over movies’ magnificence and munificence.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2021

He was preening, mercurial, a creature of luxurious comforts and particular tastes.

From The New Yorker • Feb. 20, 2019

It was clear that this was not a place that was preening itself for tourists.

From New York Times • Apr. 13, 2012

She was preening her now silver-gray, black, and white feathers.

From "My Side of the Mountain" by Jean Craighead George