fine-tune

American

[fahyn-toon, -tyoon] / ˈfaɪnˈtun, -ˈtyun /

verb (used with object)

fine-tuned, fine-tuning

to tune (a radio or television receiver) to produce the optimum reception for the desired station or channel by adjusting a control knob or bar.
tune.
to make minor adjustments in so as to produce stability, improvement, or the precise results desired.

to fine-tune the nation's economy.

fine-tune British

verb

(tr) to make fine adjustments to (something) in order to obtain optimum performance

"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

fine-tuner

noun

Etymology

Origin of fine-tune

First recorded in 1920–25

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.

DeMaio filed for the ballot initiative in 2021 and 2023, but did not move forward with the signature collection process in order to fine-tune the ballot language.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

The new approach could reshape how scientists test and fine-tune quantum processors.

From Science Daily • Apr. 8, 2026

But at the same time, she warns that researchers need to continue to fine-tune the definition of the term as the evolving science dictates.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

And while you’re at it, fine-tune your deductions as well:

From MarketWatch • Mar. 16, 2026

Leo’s conversations with Nike had helped him fine-tune the plan, but he still wanted a second opinion from another god.

From "Blood of Olympus" by Rick Riordan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023