Synonyms for

Groom

Verb / gru:m / Another word for groom — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to clean, brush, and otherwise take care of an animal's fur or hair; to make oneself neat and clean

Synonyms & similar words

hostler stableboy prepare bridegroom dress ostler train stableman neaten curry brush comb clean neaten tidy arrange primp preen polish truss tend trim launder wash shine

Synonyms by register

Formal

prepare preen curry favor manage

Informal

clean up spruce up fix up doll up

Literary

adorn deck attire

Antonyms

dishevel neglect mess up soil dirty ruin

Common collocations

  • bridegroom
  • stable groom
  • horse groom
  • wedding groom
  • attendant groom
  • well-groomed
  • dog groom

Word family

noun groom
verb groom

Usage note

The verb 'groom' can refer to cleaning and tidying oneself or another, or to preparing someone for a specific role, often with a connotation of manipulation. As a noun, it most commonly refers to a person who cares for horses or a bridegroom.

Example sentences

  1. I need to groom my hair before the wedding.
  2. He spent hours grooming his horse for the competition.
  3. She likes to groom her cat's fur every day.
  4. He always takes the time to groom himself before a job interview.
  5. The dog groomer gave my pet a bath and a haircut.

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