tune (n.)
early 14c., "a musical sound, musical note," unexplained variant of tone (n.). From late 14c. as "a well-rounded succession of musical notes, an air, melody." The meaning "state of being in proper pitch, correct intonation in singing or playing" is from mid-15c.
Earlier was in (or out of) tone (late 14c.). Colloquial to the tune of "to the sum or amount of" is from c. 1600. The tune the old cow (or cat) died of (by 1820) was a humorous term for unmelodious or grotesque music or sounds.
tune (v.)
"adjust the tones of (a voice or musical instrument), bring into a state of correct or standard pitch," c. 1500, from tune (n.). Earlier "sound a musical instrument" (late 14c.), "intone, recite, chant" (mid-15c.).
Figuratively, "put in proper or desirable condition," 1520s, hence, non-musically, "set a machine in order for work" (1814); also, "adjust (the ear, a receiver), put into a state proper for some purpose," recorded by 1887.
The verbal phrase tune in, in reference to radio (later also television) is recorded from 1913; the figurative extension to "become aware" is recorded by 1926 in "Variety." Tune out "eliminate radio reception on a particular frequency" is recorded from 1908; figurative sense of "disregard, stop heeding" is from 1928. Related: Tuned; tuning.
Trends of tune
updated on September 03, 2024
