detuned(ly)
|de/tuned/(ly)|
🇺🇸
/diːˈtjun/ or /dɪˈtjun/
🇬🇧
/ˌdiːˈtjuːn/ or /dɪˈtjuːn/
(detune)
alter tuning
Etymology
'detune' is formed in English by the prefix 'de-' (meaning 'remove' or 'reverse') added to 'tune', which ultimately comes from Greek 'tonos' via Latin 'tonus' meaning 'tone' or 'pitch'.
'tune' came into English via Middle English 'tunen' (to adjust pitch) from older Germanic/Latin influences; 'detune' was formed in modern English (19th–20th century) to express reversing or altering tuning, especially in technical contexts (radio, engines, electronics).
Originally 'tune' meant 'to adjust pitch or tone'; 'detune' developed to mean 'to make not in tune' or 'to shift away from optimal tuning/resonance', and later broadened to include deliberate reduction of performance or adjustment for regulatory/technical reasons.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or process of detuning; the state resulting from being detuned (often used as 'detuning').
The detuning of the circuit reduced interference with nearby frequencies.
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Verb 1
to make (a musical instrument, voice, or device) out of tune; to alter the pitch or tuning so it is not in correct pitch or resonance.
They detuned the piano to create a more vintage, slightly unstable sound.
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Verb 2
to adjust (an engine, electronic circuit, or system) away from its optimal or peak settings—often to reduce performance for safety, emissions, or stability.
The manufacturer detuned the engine to meet stricter emission regulations.
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Adjective 1
not in tune; having had its tuning changed so that pitch or resonance is incorrect or altered.
The detuned guitar gave the song a raw, haunting character.
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Last updated: 2025/10/30 15:22