straighten
verb (used with or without object)
to make or become straight in direction, form, position, character, conduct, condition, etc. (often followed by up orout ).
was straightening
-
past progressiveof straighten.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In his telling at this panel, it was when he was straightening his tie.
From New York Times ● Jul. 25, 2022
Even on the morning of her 100th birthday, she was straightening up dishes from her wheelchair.
From Washington Times ● Feb. 13, 2021
It’s the same coffee shop where McGrath and Manyonga hung out when the strong man was straightening out the jumper.
From The Guardian ● Dec. 5, 2016
At first I thought she was straightening the racks and hanging clothes back up that had been pulled to the floor, but then I realized she was carrying clothes away.
From Slate ● Jun. 18, 2012
Harry jumped forward, but too late — Lockhart was straightening up, panting, Ron’s wand in his hand and a gleaming smile back on his face.
From "Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets" by J. K. Rowling
