fettle

 
Pronunciation: /ˈfɛt(ə)l/

noun

[mass noun]
  • condition: Marguerite was in fine fettle

verb

[with object]
  • trim or clean the rough edges of (a metal casting or a piece of pottery) before firing.
  • Northern English make or repair (something).

Origin:

late Middle English (as a verb in the general sense 'get ready, prepare', specifically 'prepare oneself for battle, gird up'): from dialect fettle 'strip of material, girdle', from Old English fetel, of Germanic origin; related to German Fessel 'chain, band'