straighten

[ streyt-n ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become straight in direction, form, position, character, conduct, condition, etc. (often followed by up or out ).

straighten

/ ˈstreɪtən /

verb

1. to make or become straight
2. tr to make neat or tidy

   straighten your desk

Derived Forms

• ˈstraightener, noun

Other Words From

• straighten·er noun
• over·straighten verb
• pre·straighten verb (used with object)
• re·straighten verb
• un·straightened adjective
• well-straightened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of straighten¹

First recorded in 1535–45; straight + -en ¹

Example Sentences

“When I was in middle school, I might have straightened my hair, and now I’m making it as big as I can — redefining the beauty standards that were put on me,” Thoms says.

From Los Angeles Times

"On my very first period I was curled up on the floor of my parents' bedroom, screaming, unable to straighten my spine," she said.

From BBC

“Rate hikes won’t straighten out the supply chain, or speed up ships, or stop a virus that is still causing lockdowns in some parts of the world.”

From Los Angeles Times

Even if the strike were to last only a day, it could take about five days to straighten out the supply chain.

From Salon

The woman then sought help from a flight attendant, who suggested that she straighten her seat.

From BBC

Related Words

• rectify
• uncoil