prim

Definitions

prim looks like the root but took a quirky path: probably from Old French prin / prim 'fine, delicate' (from prīmus). It came to describe someone who keeps themselves precise and proper — neat to the point of being stiff and easily offended. The famous phrase is 'prim and proper.'

Common Collocations

• 1.prim and proper循规蹈矩、一本正经
• 2.prim appearance拘谨的外表
• 3.prim manner古板的举止

Example Sentences

• 1.

  She gave a prim little smile and said nothing.

• 2.

  He was far too prim to laugh at the joke.