See more synonyms for straighten on Thesaurus.comverb (used with or without object)- to make or become straight in direction, form, position, character, conduct, condition, etc. (often followed by up or out).
Origin of straighten
First recorded in
1535–45; straight +
-en1Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Related Words for straighten up
blossom,
boost,
develop,
grow,
mature,
amend,
fix,
remedy,
redress,
improve,
control,
readjust,
standardize,
monitor,
rectify,
oversee,
govern,
administer,
adjust,
determine
British Dictionary definitions for straighten up- to become or cause to become erect
- mainly US to reform or become reformed
verb (sometimes foll by up or out)- to make or become straight
- (tr) to make neat or tidystraighten your desk
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for straighten upv.1540s, from straight + -en (1). Related: Straightened; straightening.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
Idioms and Phrases with straighten upMake tidy, as in Let's get this room straightened up. [Second half of 1800s]
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
