—n. a melody with or without harmony.
—v.
1 tr. put (a musical instrument) in tune.
2 a tr. adjust (a radio receiver etc.) to the particular frequency of the required signals. b intr. (foll. by in) adjust a radio receiver to the required signal (tuned in to Radio 2).
3 tr. adjust (an engine etc.) to run smoothly and efficiently.
4 tr. (foll. by to) adjust or adapt to a required or different purpose, situation, etc.
5 intr. (foll. by with) be in harmony with.
Phrases and idioms:
in tune 1 having the correct pitch or intonation (sings in tune).
2 (usu. foll. by with) harmonizing with one's company, surroundings, etc.
out of tune
1 not having the correct pitch or intonation (always plays out of tune).
2 (usu. foll. by with) clashing with one's company etc. to the tune of colloq. to the considerable sum or amount of.
tune up
1 (of an orchestra) bring the instruments to the proper or uniform pitch.
2 begin to play or sing.
3 bring to the most efficient condition.
Derivatives:
tunable adj. (also tuneable).
Etymology: ME: unexpl. var. of TONE
Useful english dictionary. 2012.