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Definition of "prig" [prig]

  • A person who demonstrates an exaggerated conformity or propriety, especially in an irritatingly arrogant or smug manner. (noun)
  • Chiefly British A petty thief or pickpocket. (noun)
  • Archaic A conceited dandy; a fop. (noun)
  • Chiefly British To steal or pilfer. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "prig" in a sentence
  • "Your true prig is always self-conscious, but Edward was not at all self-conscious."
  • ""And a plain prig my nephew Edward," continued the old gentleman."
  • "Lord E. 's "prig" -- see Jonathan Wild for the definition of"