n. & v.
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. 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. tunable adj. (also tuneable).
[ ME: unexpl. var. of TONE ]