tighten

[tahyt-n] / ˈtaɪt n /

VERB

constrict

Synonyms

STRONGEST

narrow stiffen toughen

STRONG

bind clench close compress condense congeal contract cramp crush fasten fix grip harden pinch pressure rigidify screw secure squeeze strain strangle stretch tauten tense

Antonyms

STRONGEST

untighten

STRONG

allow compress concentrate enlarge expand extend free give help increase lengthen let go loose loosen lose melt open release stretch uncompress unfasten untie

WEAK

relax

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.

Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Thursday, Ofcom's chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said the media regulator will tighten its guidance around reality shows if necessary.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

Physical supplies of oil are continuing to tighten, with exports through the Strait of Hormuz 95% below normal levels, according to analysts at Goldman Sachs, led by Yulia Zhestkova Grigsby, senior commodities strategist.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

Also underpinning the RBA’s decision to tighten policy further were signs the economy remains fundamentally strong despite growing shocks.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

The analysts expect global lithium supply to tighten due to Chinese restrictions on lithium production at mines in Jiangxi province and Zimbabwe’s suspension of lithium-concentrate exports.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

At the mention of death, I can feel her hand tighten on my waist.

From "Before We Were Free" by Julia Alvarez

tighten

Example Sentences

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