adjective

1. unmixed with anything; undiluted; straight: said esp. of liquor drunk without a mixer or chaser
2. Rare free of deductions; net
3. 1. clean and in good order; trim; tidy
   2. characterized by tidiness, skill, and precision a neat worker
   3. without anything superfluous; simple
4. well-proportioned; shapely
5. cleverly or smartly phrased or done
6. Slang nice, pleasing, fine, etc.: a generalized term of approval

Etymology: Fr net < L nitidus, shining, elegant, smart, trim < nitere, to shine < IE base *nei-, to be active, shine > MIr nīam, luster, beauty

noun pl. neat

Etymology: ME nete < OE neat (akin to ON naut, Du noot) < base of neotan, to enjoy, possess < IE base *neud-, to make use of > Lith naudà, benefit, possessions