More orderly, clean, and organized; or more skillfully done with fewer wasted movements or materials.
From Old English 'net' and Latin 'nitidus' meaning 'shining' or 'bright.' The comparative form adds '-er' to 'neat,' which originally meant something was refined or clear in appearance.
The root 'nitidus' literally means 'shining'—so when you make your room neater, you're not just organizing, you're making it brighter and more visible, which is why people say clean spaces feel more spacious and light-filled.
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