tune out

verb

tuned out; tuning out; tunes out

transitive verb

: to become unresponsive to : ignore

intransitive verb

: to dissociate oneself from what is happening or one's surroundings

Examples of tune out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

People living near the frontlines have faced constant bombardments and the imminent threat of occupation, whereas those in the rear can, at times, tune out the conflict. — Dmytro Kuleba, Foreign Affairs, 30 Sep. 2026

As customers tune out these interchangeable perks, brands face a critical engagement crisis. — Stephanie Copeland Weber, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Welles had tested the new tune out the night before during a blazing performance at the Station Inn as part of AmericanaFest. — Chris Willman, Variety, 17 Sep. 2026

The Clarity palette reflects a desire to slow down, tune out the noise, and create space. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for tune out

• roundabout
• runabout
• sauerkraut
• thereabout
• turnabout
• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout

Kids Definition

tune out

verb

: to stop paying attention to what is happening or to one's surroundings

thinking about the work and tuning everything else out