tune-up

[ toon-uhp, tyoon- ]

noun

1. an adjustment, as of a motor, to improve working order or condition:

   The car needs a tune-up badly.

2. Informal. a preparatory activity or warm-up, as before a contest or game:

   The track meet served as a tune-up for the Olympics.

tune up

verb

1. to adjust (a musical instrument) to a particular pitch, esp a standard one
2. (esp of an orchestra or other instrumental ensemble) to tune (instruments) to a common pitch
3. tr to adjust (an engine) in (a car, etc) to improve performance

noun

1. adjustments made to an engine to improve its performance

Word History and Origins

Origin of tune-up¹

First recorded in 1945–50; noun use of verb phrase tune up

Idioms and Phrases

Adjust machinery so it is in proper condition, as in I took the car in to be tuned up . [Early 1900s]

Example Sentences

For the Americans vying for a spot on the Olympic team, it served as key tune-up.

From Seattle Times

After you’ve got a few growing seasons under your belt, a “tune-up” might help keep your garden skills sharp.

From Seattle Times

Butler also attends “tune-up” workouts, as Scott says, during the season on top of his weight training and team practices.

From Los Angeles Times

The Winter Cup is the first major tune-up for American gymnasts hoping to make this summer’s Olympic team.

From Seattle Times

In tune-up tournaments, Gauff successfully defended her title in Auckland, New Zealand, last weekend and Sabalenka reached the final in Brisbane.

From Seattle Times