titivate

Definition

To make small improvements or alterations to (one's appearance etc.); to add some finishing touches to, to spruce up or touch up.

Etymology

A modification of the earlier spelling tidivate, perhaps based on tidy + -vate, on the pattern of words such as cultivate and renovate.

Example Sentences

• "Had she spent the best part of a day in titivating herself in order that she might sit plunged in darkness, with nothing but her feet and her nose revealed?"