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 orout ).

straighten

/ ˈstreɪtən /

verb

1. to make or become straight

2. (tr) to make neat or tidy

   straighten your desk

Other Word Forms

• straightener noun
• overstraighten verb
• prestraighten verb (used with object)
• restraighten verb
• unstraightened adjective
• well-straightened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of straighten¹

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

Example Sentences

He straightens it out and enhances its faded colour with careful strokes of a pencil.

Read more on BBC

I see him wipe his eyes and straighten up, his jaw clenching.

Read more on Literature

Penelope straightened, for she too was slumped with fatigue.

Read more on Literature

“Yes, I’m well aware. It was all a misunderstanding. We’ll straighten things out tomorrow.”

Read more on Literature

Penelope straightened her spine and shook his hand firmly.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

• rectify 
• uncoil