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.
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