Tweaked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tweaked

[twiːkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

software development

To make slight adjustments or modifications to a piece of code or software in order to improve its performance or functionality.

Synonyms

adjust, fine-tune, modify, optimize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tweaked

Making small, quick changes to something to improve it slightly or adjust it. Often used in informal contexts.

  • She tweaked the layout of her website to make it more user-friendly
adjust

Making changes to something to correct or improve it, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It implies a need to make something fit better with another condition or requirement.

  • He had to adjust the mirror to see the road clearly
modify

Making changes to something, which can be either minor or significant. It is commonly used in more formal contexts.

  • The software developers modified the application to include new features
fine-tune

Making very small and precise adjustments to improve the performance of something, often used in technical or specialized fields.

  • The engineer fine-tuned the machine to increase its efficiency
optimize

Making changes to something to make it as effective or functional as possible. Often used in technical or business contexts.

  • They optimized the website to improve loading speed and user experience

Examples of usage

  • I just tweaked the code a bit to fix that bug.
  • After tweaking the settings, the program ran much faster.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To twist or pull something sharply; to make minor changes or adjustments.

Synonyms

jerk, pull, tug, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tweaked

Used when making small adjustments or fine-tuning something.

  • He tweaked the settings on his guitar to get the perfect sound
  • She tweaked the recipe to make it healthier
pull

Used for general pulling actions, typically involving steady force.

  • He pulled the rope to bring the boat closer
  • She pulled the door open
twist

Used when rotating or turning something, often involving a spiral motion.

  • She twisted the cap off the bottle
  • He twisted his ankle during the game
tug

Used for quick, short, and firm pulling actions, often repetitively.

  • The child tugged at his mother's sleeve
  • He felt a tug on the fishing line
jerk

Used when describing a sudden sharp movement, often in a negative or abrupt way.

  • The car jerked forward unexpectedly
  • He gave a jerk of his head to signal them to go

Examples of usage

  • She tweaked his ear playfully.
  • He tweaked the radio dial to find a clearer station.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, 'tweaking' can refer to small modifications in a gene to enhance growth or resistance.
  • Engineers often 'tweak' their designs during prototypes, making small adjustments based on testing results.
  • Tweaking systems in physics can lead to better efficiency, such as adjusting parameters of a model for predictive accuracy.

Pop Culture

  • In films and television, characters often 'tweak' their plans, leading to unexpected or humorous outcomes.
  • The concept of 'tweaking' has been popularized in reality shows, where contestants adjust their strategies to win.
  • Musicians sometimes tweak their sound, tweaking their instruments or software settings to get the perfect mix.

Psychology

  • Psychologists suggest that tweaking daily habits, like sleep routines, can significantly improve overall mental health.
  • Small tweaks in language use, like changing 'I have to' to 'I choose to,' can shift perspectives positively.
  • Behavioral changes, even if small, can lead to greater long-term improvements in personal well-being.

Technology

  • Software developers often need to tweak code to fix bugs or enhance performance before launching applications.
  • Gamers often talk about tweaking settings for better performance, such as adjusting graphics for their devices.
  • In user experience design, tweaking layouts can make a website easier to navigate and more appealing.

Origin of 'tweaked'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'tweak' is believed to come from the 19th century, originally meaning to pull or jerk.
  • It has roots in the Scottish word 'tweak' which also meant to pinch or twist.
  • Over time, the meaning evolved to include making small adjustments or improvements.

The word 'tweaked' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, derived from the Middle English word 'twikken' meaning 'to tweak or pull sharply'. Over time, the term evolved to also include the idea of making minor adjustments or modifications. The modern usage of 'tweaked' in software development emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of computer programming.


See also: tweak, tweaker.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,844 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.