fine-tune

verb

ˈfīn-ˈtün 

fine-tuned; fine-tuning; fine-tunes

transitive verb

1

a

: to adjust precisely so as to bring to the highest level of performance or effectiveness

fine-tune the engine of a race car

fine-tune the format

b

: to improve through minor alteration or revision

fine-tune the temperature of the room

fine-tune a policy

2

: to stabilize (an economy) by small-scale fiscal and monetary manipulations

Examples of fine-tune in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The shorter hemline is naturally petite-friendly, so there's zero concern about fabric pooling around your ankles, while its adjustable straps help fine-tune the fit. —Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2026

Looking to fine-tune her swing ahead of Riviera, Korda put her head down. —Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 4 June 2026

Youngsters can learn easy techniques, catch their first fish or fine-tune their fishing skills in a real catch-and-release pond. —Laura Daily, Denver Post, 3 June 2026

Fine Tune the Court and Outfit the Space Take some care to fine-tune the grading so that the court’s level. —Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 3 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for fine-tune

• afternoon
• forenoon
• honeymoon
• importune
• laocoon
• opportune
• pantaloon
• picayune
• tablespoon
• attune
• baboon
• balloon