tune-up

noun

ˈtün-ˌəp 

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

The main event is designed to be a tune-up for Joshua's seemingly inevitable meeting with Tyson Fury later in the year. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 24 July 2026

The Lakers reached the maximum number of tune-up games last year and could use any additional reps to prepare for this season with nine new players. — Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

They should be inspired by the rise of teenage winger Rio Ngumoha, who kicked on impressively after shining during the tune-up trip to Hong Kong and Japan a year ago. — James Pearce, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Some home warranty plans also cover the cost of HVAC tune-ups or other maintenance. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for tune-up

• buttercup
• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• buildup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup

Kids Definition

tune-up

noun

ˈt(y)ü-ˌnəp

: a general adjustment to get everything in good working order

an engine tune-up