Dictionary entry

Fine (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Fine, v. t. [imp. & p. p.Fined (fīnd); p. pr. & vb. n.Fining.] [From Fine, a.] 1. To make fine; to refine; to purify, to clarify; as, to fine gold.

It hath been fined and refined by... learned men. Hobbes.

2. To make finer, or less coarse, as in bulk, texture, etc.; as. to fine the soil. L. H. Bailey.

3. To change by fine gradations; as (Naut.), to fine down a ship's lines, to diminish her lines gradually.

I often sate at home

On evenings, watching how they fined themselves

With gradual conscience to a perfect night. Browning.