Tune

Definition

Tune refers to a melody or sequence of musical notes arranged in a pleasing manner. As a verb, it means to adjust or modify an instrument, machine, or system to ensure proper functionality or harmony.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tuːn/ or /tjuːn/
• Respelling: toon or tyoon

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tjuːn/
• Respelling: tyoon

Etymology

The word "tune" originates from Old English "tune," meaning "song" or "melody," influenced by Old French "ton" (tone) and Latin "tonus" (sound or tone). Its modern usage evolved in the 14th century, encompassing both musical and adjustment-related meanings.

Derivatives

• Tunable (adjective)
• Tuner (noun)
• Tuning (noun/verb)
• Retune (verb)
• Out-of-tune (adjective)

Synonyms

• Melody
• Harmony
• Adjust

Antonyms

• Discord
• Disharmony
• None

Usage

As a noun, "tune" commonly refers to a musical composition. For example, "He hummed a cheerful tune while working."

As a verb, "tune" describes the act of adjusting or modifying for accuracy or harmony. For example, "She tuned the guitar before the performance."

Related Terms

• Melody: A sequence of notes that is musically satisfying.
• Pitch: The quality of sound related to frequency.
• Adjustment: The act of modifying something for accuracy or functionality.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A melody or sequence of musical notes: Refers to a pleasing arrangement of sounds.
  • Example: "The orchestra played a beautiful tune."
• A state of harmony or agreement: Indicates alignment or synchronization.
  • Example: "The team worked in perfect tune with one another."

Verb

• To adjust a musical instrument: Refers to aligning the pitch or tone of an instrument.
  • Example: "The musician tuned the piano before the concert."
• To modify for proper functioning: Describes adjustments made to a system, device, or machine.
  • Example: "The mechanic tuned the engine for better performance."