tonning

Tonning is a term that does not have a widely recognized definition in major English-language reference works. In most uses, it appears as a nonstandard spelling of toning, or as a proper noun such as a surname or locality. Because of its rarity and variability, the meaning of tonning is highly dependent on context.

Common nonstandard usage: In fitness and wellness discussions, toning describes increasing muscle definition and maintaining a lean physique. However, the correct term is toning, not tonning, and most authorities treat toning as a synonym of muscle conditioning rather than a separate process. In visual arts and photography, toning refers to a chemical treatment that changes the color of a print or photograph; tonning would be considered a misspelling in such contexts.

Notable uses as a proper noun: Tonning is found as a surname in some Scandinavian and German-speaking regions, and may appear in place names or family histories. In these cases, capitalization signals a proper noun rather than a common noun.

Relation to other terms: Tonning is etymologically related to tone and tonality; the standard term toning is used in most references.

See also toning, tone, tonal.