tighten

[ tahyt-n ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become tight or tighter.

   Synonyms: fasten, anchor, secure

tighten

/ ˈtaɪtən /

verb

1. to make or become tight or tighter
2. tighten one's belt
   to economize

Derived Forms

• ˈtightener, noun

Other Words From

• tighten·er noun
• over·tighten verb
• re·tighten verb
• self-tighten·ing adjective
• un·tighten verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of tighten¹

First recorded in 1720–30; tight + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Different transcription initiation sites can become available as a gene is tightened or loosened, and different proteins may be created.

From Science Daily

So the Dodgers can strengthen baseball’s best lineup, deepen their historic batting order, tighten their versatile defense, become even more exciting, more enchanting, more unbeatable.

From Los Angeles Times

The revitalized agency issued new standards for lead in drinking water and tightened requirements for vehicle and power plant emissions.

From Science Magazine

Still, the fact the team is even entertaining a meeting with this year’s top free agent suggests the Dodgers, for all the spending they did last offseason, aren’t tightening their purse strings yet.

From Los Angeles Times

That tide has turned under President Xi Jinping, whose government is tightening controls on Pride events, restricting queer representation on TV and pressuring internet sites and platforms to scrub LGBTQ-friendly content.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• narrow
• stiffen
• toughen