retouch
UK[ˌriːˈtʌtʃ]US[ˌriːˈtʌtʃ]
v
to make small changes to a picture, photograph, or piece of writing in order to improve it.
n
the act of retouching something, or a change that is made when retouching.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
touch
re
again
touch
to handle
Etymology
the word "retouch" is a straightforward compound formed within english from the latin-derived prefix "re-" and the verb "touch". it entered the language in the late 17th century, initially used in the context of painting and drawing to describe the action of going over a work again to improve or correct details. the literal sense of "touching again" perfectly captures the process of making subsequent, careful adjustments. over time, its application broadened to include photography and digital imagery, while retaining the core concept of making small, finishing alterations to enhance the final product.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + touch (to handle)
re: latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
touch: from old french 'tochier', ultimately from a common germanic root, meaning "to make physical contact with" or "to handle".
Examples
the photographer spent hours retouching the portrait to remove minor blemishes.
this historical image has been digitally retouched to restore its original colors.
a good editor will retouch your manuscript without altering your unique voice.