Langimage
English

atune

|a-tune|

C1

🇺🇸

/əˈtuːn/

🇬🇧

/əˈtjuːn/

bring into harmony

Etymology
Etymology Information

'atune' originates from Middle English, specifically the verb 'atunen', where the prefix 'a-' meant 'to' or 'on' and 'tune' comes from Old French/Old English elements related to 'tone' (ultimately from Latin 'tonus' meaning 'tone').

Historical Evolution

'atune' changed from the Middle English word 'atunen' and later the spelling and frequency shifted to the modern form 'attune' while keeping the same basic sense.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to put into tone or harmony' and over time it has remained close to that sense, expanding to mean 'to adapt or make receptive' in figurative uses.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to bring into harmony or accord; to adjust or adapt (something) so that it works well or is in tune

She tried to atune the choir to a single pitch before the performance.

Synonyms

Antonyms

disharmonizedisordermisadjust

Adjective 1

past participle form of 'atune' used adjectivally: in harmony or receptive/aware (e.g., 'atuned to the needs')

Being atuned to the audience helped the speaker adjust his tone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/11/17 05:24