touch-up

1 of 2

noun

ˈtəch-ˌəp 

: an act or instance of touching up

touch up

2 of 2

verb

touched up; touching up; touches up

transitive verb

1

: to improve or perfect by small additional strokes or alterations : fix the minor and usually visible defects or damages of

2

: to stimulate by or as if by a flick of a whip

Examples of touch-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

However, some clients need a touch-up after one to two years, adds Patel. —Kate Foster, Glamour, 2 Dec. 2024

As for the formula’s versatility, it can also be used for touch-ups, mixed with foundation for all-over glow or used as a super-dewy primer. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Verb

Penman and Sansom had Strong’s makeup down to 30 minutes a day and would touch up his tan by having a spray booth set up right on set. —Beatrice Verhoeven, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Dec. 2024

While the artwork had been touched up over the years, Miner spearheaded a makeover in 2020, working with the building's then-owner, Omar Barham, to repair the wall and reimagine the original art. —Holly V. Hays, The Indianapolis Star, 14 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1733, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

touch-up

1 of 2 noun

ˈtəch-ˌəp

: an act or instance of touching up

touch up

2 of 2 verb

(ˈ)təch-ˈəp

: to improve by or as if by small changes : fix the little imperfections of