Definition

1. Verb:
   • To improve or alter (something, especially a photograph, painting, or piece of text) by making small corrections or additions. This is the most common meaning, referring to the process of enhancing an image's appearance by removing flaws, adjusting colors, or adding details.
   • To give a finishing touch to (hair), especially by dyeing or tinting the roots. This is a specialized meaning used in the context of hairdressing and cosmetics.

Usage Examples

• Verb (General/Photography):
  • The photographer will retouch the portrait to remove blemishes.
  • Many magazine covers feature retouched images of celebrities.
• Verb (Hairdressing):
  • I need to retouch my roots before the event.
  • She visits the salon every month to have her color retouched.

Advanced Usage

• "Retouched" (Adjective): Describes something that has been altered in this way.
  • The authenticity of the image was questioned because it appeared to be heavily retouched.
• In Digital Media: The term is central to discussions about authenticity, body image, and ethics in advertising and social media.
  • There is a growing movement against excessively retouched beauty standards.

Variants and Related Words

• Retoucher (Noun): A person whose job is to retouch photographs or images.
  • She works as a digital retoucher for a fashion magazine.
• Retouching (Noun): The process or skill of retouching.
  • The retouching on this old photo is remarkably skillful.

Synonyms

• Touch up: To make small improvements or repairs. (e.g., ).
• Enhance: To intensify or improve the quality of.
• Correct: To make right or remove errors.
• Airbrush: To alter an image using an airbrush or digital tool, often implying the removal of imperfections.

Related Phrases

• Photo retouching: The specific process of altering photographs.
• Color retouch: Specifically touching up or refreshing hair color.

Notes on Meaning

The core meaning of "retouch" involves making minor, skillful alterations to improve the final appearance of an object. It implies a careful, detailed process rather than a major overhaul. In modern contexts, it is overwhelmingly associated with digital image manipulation.

Verb

1. alter so as to produce a more desirable appearance
   • This photograph has been retouched!
2. give retouches to (hair)
   • retouch the roots