Synonyms for

Straighten

Verb / ˈstreɪtʌn / Another word for straighten — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to make something straight or to become straight

Synonyms & similar words

neaten rollout unbend straightenout squareaway cleanup tidyup bend tidy align adjust correct fix level neaten order organize position prepare settle smooth tidy unwrinkle arrange compose equalize even flatten

Synonyms by register

Formal

rectify align adjust regulate

Informal

fix sort out smooth out even out

Literary

unfurl uncoil unbend

Antonyms

bend curve crook twist warp disarrange disorder

Common collocations

  • straighten up
  • straighten out a tie
  • straighten one's back
  • straighten a picture
  • straighten a road
  • straighten a smile
  • straighten a bent nail

Word family

noun straightness
verb straighten
adjective straight
adverb straight

Usage note

When referring to correcting a situation or problem, 'straighten out' is a common phrasal verb. 'Straighten up' often implies improving one's posture or behavior.

Example sentences

  1. She used a ruler to straighten the line.
  2. Can you please straighten the picture on the wall?
  3. He tried to straighten his tie before the interview.
  4. The hairdresser will straighten your hair with a flat iron.
  5. I need to straighten out my back after sitting for so long.

Quotes

  • The world is a wheel, and it will all come round right. // Let it be, let it be. - Paul McCartney
  • Things that are done, it is needless to speak about...things that are past, it is needless to blame. - Confucius
  • Life is like a camera, just focus on the good times, develop from the negatives and if things don't work out, just take another shot.

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