Retouch (lithics)

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Retouch - the work done to an edge of a flint implement in order to make it into a functional tool, or to reshape a used tool. In the case of a core-tool, such as a hand-axe, retouch may simply consist of roughly trimming the edge by striking with a hammerstone, but on smaller, finer flake or blade tools it is sometimes carried out by pressure flaking. Retouch, also known as secondary working, is one of the most obvious features distinguishing a tool from a waste by-product of lithic manufacture (debitage).