primp
UK: /prɪmp/ | US: /prɪmp/
vt. to groom or dress oneself with meticulous care, often with excessive attention to detail
primp = prim<neat, formal> + p (reduplicative or emphatic element)
- prim (from Middle English primme, meaning "neat, formal")
- p (likely an emphatic or reduplicative suffix, adding playful or intensive force)
Etymology Origin:
The word "primp" emerged in the late 16th century, blending "prim" (meaning excessively neat or proper) with an added "p" for rhythmic or emphatic effect. This playful formation mimics the fussy, repetitive actions of preening or adjusting one's appearance. The root "prim" itself traces back to Old French prime ("first, excellent"), reflecting the idea of meticulous self-presentation.
She spent an hour primping in front of the mirror before the party.
The actor primped his hair between takes to maintain his polished look.
Birds often primp their feathers to attract mates.
He scoffed at her habit of primping, calling it vanity.
The model primped quickly before stepping onto the runway.