retouch
UK: ˌriːˈtʌtʃ | US: ˌriːˈtʌtʃ
vt. to improve or alter (a photograph, painting, etc.) by adding small details or corrections
vt. to modify or refine something subtly
The word "retouch" combines the prefix "re-" (from Latin, meaning "again") with the root "touch" (from Old French "touchier," meaning "to handle or modify"). Originally used in art restoration, it described the act of carefully revising or refining a work. Over time, it expanded to photography and digital editing, retaining its core idea of subtle improvement.
The photographer retouched the portrait to remove blemishes.
She spent hours retouching the details of her oil painting.
Modern software makes it easy to retouch images digitally.
The editor asked the designer to retouch the logo for clarity.
Historical artworks are often retouched to preserve their original appearance.