tweak
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to make small changes to something so that it works better.
v.to make fine-grained adjustments to a system, process, or object to improve performance or accuracy.
Simple“We just need to tweak the settings on the oven to get the cake right.”
In context“The software engineers spent the weekend tweaking the algorithm to reduce latency during peak traffic hours.”
UsageOften used with 'the' followed by a specific setting or parameter.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
v.to act very nervous or strange, often because of drugs.
v.to exhibit extreme nervousness, excitability, or erratic behavior, typically associated with methamphetamine abuse.
Simple“He was tweaking in the corner, looking around like he was being followed.”
In context“The suspect began tweaking during the interrogation, making it difficult for the officers to obtain a coherent statement.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is highly informal and carries a strong negative association with drug culture; use with caution.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a small change made to improve something.
n.a minor modification or adjustment intended to optimize a result.
Simple“With a few minor tweaks, the presentation will be ready for the client.”
In context“The designer suggested a few aesthetic tweaks to the layout to make the interface more intuitive for new users.”
Synonyms
“This year's vaccine has had a few tweaks, including one to better match subclade K.”
From Middle English twikken, from Old English twiccian (“to pluck”), from Proto-West Germanic *twekkōn (“to fasten; clamp; pinch”). Related to twitch. The drug-related sense may be a blend of twitch and freak.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.