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Synonyms

attune

American  
[uh-toon, uh-tyoon] / əˈtun, əˈtyun /

verb (used with object)

attuned, attuning
  1. to bring into accord, harmony, or sympathetic relationship; adjust.

    He has attuned himself to living in the quiet country.

  2. Archaic. to tune or bring into harmony, as a musical instrument.


attune British  
/ əˈtjuːn /

verb

  1. to adjust or accustom (a person or thing); acclimatize

  2. to tune (a musical instrument)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of attune

First recorded in 1590–1600; at- + tune

Explanation

When you attune to something, you adjust to it and become aware of the way it works. A new parent has to attune to a baby's schedule and personality. Preschool teachers need to attune to their students' various needs and interests, and when you visit a foreign country it's important to attune to the unfamiliar culture, so that you're both comfortable and respectful. The verb attune is almost always followed by "to," and it often shows up in the form of "be attuned to." Attune comes from tune, "bring into a state of proper pitch."

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Vocabulary lists containing attune

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Dieting and weight are unfortunately common conversation topics during the holidays,” said registered dietitian Kelly Martin, MS, RDN, CD, founder of Attune Nutrition in Seattle.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 13, 2021

Attune, at-tūn′, v.t. to put in tune: to make one sound accord with another: to arrange fitly: to make musical.—n.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Various

But oft as on the charm we gaze, Attune the wond'ring soul to praise; And be the joys that most we prize, The joys that from thy favour rise!

From Poems (1786), Volume I. by Williams, Helen Maria

Deck'd in the gaieties of thoughtless Joy Let jocund Laughter in each orbit beam In mirth alone I passing time Employ Attune my Voice & Pleasure is the Theme.

From The Harlot's Progress, The Rake's Progress (MS., CA. 1778-1780) by Anonymous

Attune our hearts to sing Thy praise, Expand our souls to comprehend Thy attributes and all Thy ways, And ever be our Guide and Friend.

From Our Profession and Other Poems by Barhite, Jared