Tune in
Meaning
To listen or watch a particular radio or television broadcast.
Origin
The phrase 'tune in' emerged with the dawn of radio broadcasting in the early 20th century. Before digital presets, listeners had to physically adjust a receiver's dial, or 'tuner,' to match the precise frequency of a desired radio station. This delicate act of 'tuning' brought the chaotic atmospheric signals into clear, audible focus, allowing the broadcast to be received. As television developed, the same concept of adjusting a receiver to a specific channel continued, solidifying 'tune in' as the universal command to connect with a scheduled broadcast, whether auditory or visual.
Examples
- Don't forget to tune in tomorrow night for the grand finale of the cooking show.
- Many listeners tune in every morning for their local news and traffic updates.