straiten

[ streyt-n ]

verb (used with object)

1. to put into difficulties, especially financial ones:

   His obligations had straitened him.

2. to restrict in range, extent, amount, pecuniary means, etc:

   Poverty straitens one's way of living.

3. Archaic.
   1. to make narrow.
   2. to confine within narrow limits.

straiten

/ ˈstreɪtən /

verb

1. tr; usually passive to embarrass or distress, esp financially
2. tr to limit, confine, or restrict
3. archaic.
   to make or become narrow

Word History and Origins

Origin of straiten¹

First recorded in 1515–25; strait + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Does he not, at this instant, straiten and invade your confederates, whom you have solemnly sworn to protect?

From Project Gutenberg

O love immense and independent, which nothing can limit or straiten!

From Project Gutenberg

Col. Harden, at the same time, with a body of mounted militia, had it in charge to straiten the enemy upon the Edisto.

From Project Gutenberg

Hatsell, Baron—Mr. Cowper, I would not have you straiten yourself, but only ask those questions that are pertinent.

From Project Gutenberg

He told me he could not say but it might straiten him a little; but, however, it was my money, and I might want it more than he.

From Project Gutenberg