n. [ AS. preón a clasp, bodkin; akin to D. priem punch, bodkin, awl, G. pfriem, Icel. prjōnn a knitting needle, pin, Dan. preen a bodkin, punch. ] A forked tool used by clothiers in dressing cloth. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t.
v. i. To dress up neatly and smartly; to make oneself well-groomed and well-dressed. [ PJC ]
v. t.
But he was preëngaged by former ties. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. Prior engagement, obligation, or attachment, as by contract, promise, or affection. [ 1913 Webster ]
My preëngagements to other themes were not unknown to those for whom I was to write. Boyle. [ 1913 Webster ]