from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Fine \Fine\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Fined} (f[imac]nd); p. pr. &
vb. n. {Fining}.] [From {Fine}, a.]
1. To make fine; to refine; to purify, to clarify; as, to
fine gold.
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It hath been fined and refined by . . . learned men.
--Hobbes.
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2. To make finer, or less coarse, as in bulk, texture, etc.;
as. to fine the soil. --L. H. Bailey.
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3. To change by fine gradations; as (Naut.), to fine down a
ship's lines, to diminish her lines gradually.
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I often sate at home
On evenings, watching how they fined themselves
With gradual conscience to a perfect night.
--Browning.
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