tune out

verb

tuned out; tuning out; tunes out
Synonyms of tune outnext

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Clarity palette reflects a desire to slow down, tune out the noise, and create space. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026 Netflix execs no doubt long ago figured out how to tune out the nattering nabobs of negativism, understanding that such scrutiny — from both consumers and the press — is the unavoidable by-product of success. — Josef Adalian, Vulture, 21 Aug. 2026 Try to tune out the noise, stick to your game plan, and periodically rebalance your diversified portfolio. — Jill Schlesinger, Mercury News, 17 Aug. 2026 Howard Dean, the former Vermont governor who became chair after his 2004 Presidential campaign, told me that part of the job is learning how to tune out the complaints, something Martin has apparently not yet mastered. — Ruby Cramer, New Yorker, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tune out

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of tune out was in 1908

Rhymes for tune out

See All Rhymes for tune out

Browse Nearby Words

tuneless
tune out
tuner
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tune out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tune%20out. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

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

More from Merriam-Webster on tune out

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for tune out

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