straiten

American  

[streyt-n] / ˈstreɪt 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.

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straiten British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of straiten

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

Example Sentences

Young scientists are naturally reluctant to expose themselves to anti-science obloquy; the straitened condition of the national press has led to mass layoffs of journalists with the knowledge and skill to communicate scientific truths.

From Los Angeles Times

If their circumstances are straitened, dreaming is free; Issa and Anton build an imaginary future for him on the basis of watching a dot move on a GPS map.

From Los Angeles Times

Alfie may never realize his romantic fantasies, but his Romanticism transcends his straitened horizons.

From Los Angeles Times

Nigeria is currently facing straitened economic times and many are desperate to find a way to boost their income.

From BBC

At the same time, with the country’s straitened economy, parties are reluctant to be seen to be making unfunded spending commitments on anything, including green initiatives.

From BBC