auto-tune

verb

au·​to-tune ˈȯ-ˌtō-ˌt(y)ün How to pronounce auto-tune (audio)
variants or Auto-Tune
auto-tuned or Auto-Tuned; auto-tuning or Auto-Tuning; auto-tunes or Auto-Tunes

transitive verb

: to adjust or alter (a recording) with Auto-Tune software especially to correct sung notes that are out of tune

Examples of auto-tune 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 use of auto-tune is so ubiquitous that younger singers now mimic its pitch in their natural singing voices. — Stephen Humphries, Christian Science Monitor, 31 Dec. 2025 In fact, in the absence of auto-tune, Posty’s signature warble sounded stronger and more melodic than ever. — Lyndsey Havens, Billboard, 14 Apr. 2025 Jay also has imitators of his auto-tune crowd work around the globe, from India to Portugal. — Leila Jordan, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2025 Swarm agents predict critical quality attributes, simulate what-ifs and auto-tune feeds in real time. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 11 June 2025 In the pop-culture world now with Chappell and Olivia, a lot of the music had been so mechanized and auto-tuned — spoon-fed that way for a little bit longer than people realize. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2025 Throughout the nine tracks, which range from haunting to playful and toy with auto-tune, Malone examines relationship hierarchies and expectations. — Ilana Kaplan, PEOPLE, 11 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Auto-Tune, trademark for a signal processor

First Known Use

1997, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of auto-tune was in 1997

Rhymes for auto-tune

See All Rhymes for auto-tune

Browse Nearby Words

autotruck
auto-tune
autotype
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Auto-tune.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/auto-tune. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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