To sharpen or refine something, especially a blade or skill. It involves gradual improvement through careful attention and practice.
From Old English 'han' meaning 'stone', specifically a whetstone used for sharpening. The verb form developed from the noun, as people would 'hone' their blades on a honing stone.
The phrase 'hone in on' is actually a modern confusion - the original expression is 'home in on' like a homing pigeon. However, 'hone in' has become so common that many dictionaries now accept it!
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