What is grooming?

There are several definitions of grooming. One definition, when referencing a person's clothing and hygiene habits, is to make neat or tidy. Another definition of grooming is when a person is being prepped for an election or other important political position.

Grooming can also be used when referring to animals. An animal grooms itself, or another animal, when it removes dirt, parasites or other unwanted debris by licking, biting or scratching. A person grooms an animal by bathing, brushing or tending to the hygienic needs of the animal. Grooming is derived from the word groom and has a Middle English origin.