to fettle
To remove rough marks and sand from a newly made metal part
- verb
- /ˈfɛtəl/
- UK
Examples
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You've fettle enough for 20 men.
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But fettle your fine joints 'gainst Thursday next!
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The workers need to fettle the metal parts before assembling the machine.
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We must fettle the castings properly to ensure a smooth surface.
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Before the final inspection, the technician will fettle any remaining imperfections.
How Smooth
Surface Forms
Etymology
Fettle as a verb comes from an old word meaning 'to make ready' and is related to the simple word fit. So to fettle a casting is to trim and smooth the rough parts until it is ready or 'fit' for use.