straighten

American  

[streyt-n] / ˈstreɪt 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 ).

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straighten British  

/ ˈstreɪtən /

verb

1. to make or become straight

2. (tr) to make neat or tidy

   straighten your desk

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of straighten

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

Example Sentences

But whether she was too nervous to do a thorough job or whether there was a more mysterious explanation, she straightened up empty-handed.

From Literature

She flung the gum in the stove and resumed her stance, straightened her skirts, and folded her hands before her.

From Literature

I straightened my spine and smoothed my blue cotton frock.

From Literature

When he straightens to standing he throws his arms up in a sheepish shrug.

From Literature

I run my hand over my hair, which is down for once because Celia insisted on straightening it, and take my spot in line between Avery and Cassie.

From Literature

Related Words

• rectify
• uncoil