prim
UK: prɪm | US: prɪm
adj. stiffly formal, precise, or proper in manner or appearance
adj. neat and tidy in an overly fastidious way
v. (archaic) to assume a prim expression or posture
The word "prim" originates from the Latin primus, meaning "first," which evolved into Old French prim ("fine, excellent") and Middle English prim ("formal, precise"). The sense of being overly neat or fussy likely arose from the idea of striving to be "first" or perfect in appearance. Over time, it acquired connotations of stiffness or excessive propriety.
She sat with prim posture during the formal dinner.
The teacher’s prim demeanor made the students nervous.
He primmed his lips in disapproval at the messy room.
Her prim dress and gloves contrasted with the casual party.
The garden was kept prim, with every hedge perfectly trimmed.