Synonyms for

Loose

Verb / lu:s / Another word for loose — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not firmly or tightly held in place; not fitting tightly

Synonyms & similar words

lax sluttish confine liberal open affixed unaffixed stiffen informal light letloose free tight unleash ontheloose compact relax idle release escaped slack wanton promiscuous loosen liberate unfastened slack baggy flowing free relaxed limp droopy sloppy unbound unattached unsecured unfixed unsteady unrestrained unconfined unleashed unrestrained unchecked

Synonyms by register

Formal

unrestrained unattached unsecured slack

Informal

baggy sloppy hangy not tight

Literary

unfettered untied unbound

Antonyms

tight fastened secure attached fixed firm confined

Common collocations

  • loose end
  • loose change
  • loose cannon
  • loose fitting
  • loose tongue
  • loose morals
  • loose screw
  • loose association

Word family

noun looseness
verb loosen
adjective loose
adverb loosely

Usage note

The adjective 'loose' often describes something not tightly fixed or contained. As a verb, 'loosen' means to make something less tight or strict.

Example sentences

  1. The shoelaces on my sneakers are loose.
  2. The screws on the chair are loose and need tightening.
  3. My dress is too loose and needs to be altered.
  4. The dog got loose and ran away.
  5. The rope was tied too loose and came undone.

Quotes

  • I have a loose tooth and I'm afraid it will fall out. - Anonymous
  • The knot was loose and the boat drifted away. - Unknown
  • The dog got loose and ran around the park. - Jane Doe

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