Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for tighten.
Definitions

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.

The planning comes as the Iranian military continues to tighten its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, attacking several commercial vessels on Saturday as it declared the waterway was being “strictly controlled” by Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Meta Platforms is reportedly planning yet another round of layoffs as the company aims to tighten its focus on artificial intelligence.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

"Often, it's just a mistake. Sometimes all it takes is making people more aware of these things to tighten up some processes."

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

Greater bond market volatility could tighten funding markets, which has been a focal point of past financial turmoil.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

In 1605, Paul V had been elected Pope, and he made a determined effort to extend the authority of the Church and tighten the papal grip on Catholic states.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin