groomed

Groomed is the past tense of the verb groom and can function as an adjective. The term covers several related ideas that involve tending, shaping, or preparing something or someone. In everyday language, grooming refers to the actions taken to maintain cleanliness and an orderly appearance: washing, brushing, trimming, and dressing neatly; a person who keeps themselves neat is described as well-groomed. In animal care, grooming involves cleaning, brushing, fur trimming, and checking for parasites or injuries, with professional groomers tending to pets and livestock.

Grooming can also mean training or preparing someone for a future role or opportunity. In business, politics, and sports, an individual may be described as groomed for leadership when they are mentored, given specific experiences, and shaped for succession.

Grooming also has a troubling sense as a predatory practice in which an adult builds an emotional connection with a child or vulnerable person to exploit them, often through online interaction. Recognizing warning signs such as inappropriate flattery, secrecy, pressure to meet in person, or coercive behavior is important; many jurisdictions regulate or prohibit this conduct, and reporting is encouraged to protect potential victims.

The term is widely used in both literal and metaphorical senses, and its precise meaning depends on context. See also well-groomed, grooming (animal care), grooming (process).