prim — very formal and proper in behavior or appearance; excessively neat and precise
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: very formal and proper in behavior or appearance; excessively neat and precise
Pronunciation (IPA): /prɪm/
Example Sentences
- The prim librarian shushed everyone so quietly that nobody heard her.
- Her prim dress made her look like she stepped out of a Victorian painting.
- He tried to look prim at the job interview but accidentally spilled coffee on his tie.
prim
ADJECTIVE[/prɪm/]
very formal and proper in behavior or appearance; excessively neat and precise
The prim librarian adjusts her collar and frowns at the whispering students.
P(perfect) + RIM(edge) — ironing every RIM(edge) of his suit to be P(perfect), the butler showed a completely prim appearance.
After getting a neat trim at the barber, the wild man transformed into a highly prim gentleman.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
First appeared in early 18th century English, likely derived from 'prime' meaning 'first' or 'excellent,' developing the sense of being perfectly proper and neat.
Breakdown
prim (root meaning 'first/excellent' suggesting perfectness in appearance and behavior)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The prim librarian shushed everyone so quietly that nobody heard her.”
“Her prim dress made her look like she stepped out of a Victorian painting.”
“He tried to look prim at the job interview but accidentally spilled coffee on his tie.”
“The prim garden had every flower perfectly aligned in neat rows.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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