Pronunciation: [ɹɪtˈɛmpəɹɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "retempering" is spelled with a "re-" prefix, followed by "tempering," and ends with "-ing." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /riːˈtɛmpərɪŋ/. The stress is on the second syllable, and the vowel sounds are "iː" for "re," "ɛ" for "tem," and "ər" for "per." The final syllable "-ing" is pronounced as "ɪŋ." The word refers to the process of adding water or other liquids to a material to restore its consistency.
Re-tempering is a term primarily used in the context of construction and masonry. It refers to the process of remixing or adding water to already mixed mortar or concrete that has become stiff or rigid due to the evaporation of its initial water content.
When mortar or concrete is left exposed to air for an extended period, it may lose some of its moisture and become hardened and difficult to work with. In such cases, re-tempering is performed to restore the desired consistency and plasticity of the material. This is typically achieved by introducing small amounts of water and thoroughly remixing the mixture until it reaches the desired workability.
Re-tempering helps to ensure that the mortar or concrete remains easy to spread and manipulate. It is commonly employed by masons, builders, and contractors to adjust the moisture content of the mixture to suit their specific needs or working conditions. However, it is important to note that excessive re-tempering can compromise the quality, strength, and durability of the final product, and as such, it should be done judiciously.
Overall, re-tempering is a valuable technique used in the construction industry to maintain or restore the workability of mortar or concrete that has partially hardened, allowing for greater control and ease of application during the building process.
The word "retempering" is derived from the combination of two words: "re-" and "tempering".
The prefix "re-" is a Latin prefix meaning "again" or "once more". It is used to indicate repetition or reversal of an action.
The word "tempering" comes from the Old English word "temperian" which means "to mix or blend in due proportions". It can also refer to the process of heating and cooling metal or glass to give it desired properties of hardness, toughness, or elasticity.
Therefore, "retempering" refers to the act of tempering again or repeating the process of tempering. It can be used in various contexts, such as re-heating and cooling metal or glass to achieve desired properties or blending materials in specific proportions again.
