Definition

More concerned with being proper or neat in a way that can seem overly fussy or affected.

Example

She dressed in a prissier manner than her friends, always choosing the most formal outfits.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think she's gotten even prissier since she started dating him.

Really? I didn't notice that, but it makes sense.

Yeah, she used to be more laid-back before.

It’s funny how relationships can change people like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prissier is derived from the word "prissy" (from the 19th-century slang, possibly a diminutive of "precious"), which means overly proper or affectedly dainty, combined with the comparative suffix "-ier" (meaning more). The word "prissier" means more prissy or more affectedly proper than something else.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'more proper' or 'more affected' — that's what prissier means.

Visually Confused Words