tune-up

noun

ˈtün-ˌəp How to pronounce tune-up (audio)
ˈtyün-
1
: a general adjustment to ensure operation at peak efficiency
an engine tune-up
2
: a preliminary trial : warm-up

Examples of tune-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If the Spurs were looking for a tough test in their final tune-up before facing the vaunted Thunder, the Kings were in no position to give it to them. — Jeff McDonald, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Oct. 2026 After hosting the Cavaliers on Tuesday night, the Magic will take on the Heat on Friday night in their final tune-up ahead of next Wednesday’s opening night matchup against the Hawks. — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 The Wild hosted the Dallas Stars on Friday night in their final tune-up before starting their regular season on Thursday against the Nashville Predators. — Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 2026 Los Angeles left-hander Blake Snell struck out three and didn't walk a batter, allowing one run on five hits over four innings in his final playoff tune-up. — CBS News, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tune-up

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tune-up was in 1933

Rhymes for tune-up

See All Rhymes for tune-up

Browse Nearby Words

tunesmith
tune-up
tung
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tune-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tune-up. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tune-up

noun
ˈt(y)ü-ˌnəp
: a general adjustment to get everything in good working order
an engine tune-up
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