straighten

[streyt-n] / ˈstreɪt n /

VERB

put in neat or aligned order

Synonyms

STRONGEST

rectify uncoil

STRONG

align arrange compose correct even level neaten order tidy unbend uncurl unfold unravel unsnarl untwist

WEAK

make plumb make straight put in order put perpendicular put straight put to rights put upright put vertical set to rights smarten up spruce up

Antonyms

STRONG

disarrange disorder disorganize disperse mess up mix up scatter

WEAK

bend curve move twist

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.

“You have New Orleans, which has a crime problem. We’ll straighten that out in two weeks, easier than D.C.,”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 3, 2025

Or could the head of the country's supreme audit institution, another Socialist named Pierre Moscovici, help straighten the country's finances?

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

Should these innings be used to straighten out previously-successful relievers such as Treinen and Scott?

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2025

"Can y'all come straighten it up over here? It's not looking luxurious," Sean "Diddy" Combs says in a voice note to his personal assistants as R&B music mellows in the background.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2025

I come to a stop against a brass rail and straighten up, looking back at Earl in shock.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Vocabulary lists containing straighten

List 10

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Giving Tree"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Spelling Practice 3, Unit 4

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!