attune
|at-tune|
🇺🇸
/əˈtuːn/
🇬🇧
/əˈtjuːn/
in harmony
Etymology
'attune' originates from English formation using the prefix 'a-' plus 'tune', where 'a-' is a verbal prefix and 'tune' comes via Old French/Middle English from Latin/Greek roots meaning 'tone'.
'attune' developed as a verb in Early Modern English from 'a-' + Middle English 'tunen' (to tune), with 'tune' ultimately from Latin 'tonus' and Greek 'tonos'.
Initially it meant 'to bring into musical tune' (literal sense); over time it broadened to figurative senses 'bring into harmony' and 'make receptive/aware'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to adjust (an instrument, voice, etc.) to the correct pitch; to bring into musical tune.
She attuned the piano before the recital.
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Verb 2
to bring into harmony or agreement; to make consistent or compatible.
The policies were attuned to the needs of the local community.
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Verb 3
to make receptive or aware; to cause someone to be sensitive to or aware of something (often used with to).
Good teachers attune students to different ways of thinking.
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Adjective 1
past participle form of 'attune' used as an adjective: 'adjusted to or in harmony with'.
The team is well attuned to each other's strengths.
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Last updated: 2025/11/17 02:51