prissy
UK: ˈprɪsi | US: ˈprɪsi
adj. excessively or affectedly prim, proper, or fussy
adj. overly concerned with trivial details of behavior or appearance
prissy = priss<prim, fussy> + y<adjective suffix>
- priss (from "priss," a back-formation of "prissy," meaning overly precise or fussy)
- y (adjective-forming suffix, indicating "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word "prissy" emerged in the early 20th century as an extension of "priss," a colloquial term for someone excessively prim or fastidious. The suffix "-y" adds a descriptive quality, emphasizing the exaggerated nature of the behavior. The term likely evolved from playful or mocking usage, capturing the stereotype of rigid, overly proper manners.
She was criticized for her prissy attitude toward casual dress codes.
His prissy insistence on perfect table manners annoyed his friends.
The prissy decor of the room felt stifling and impersonal.
Don’t be so prissy—a little dirt won’t hurt you!
Her prissy refusal to try street food made the trip less fun.