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Showing results for loosen.
Definitions

loosen

[loo-suhn] / ˈlu sən /
VERB
unbind
Synonyms
STRONGEST
alleviate break up ease loose relax slacken undo unlock unscrew untie
STRONG
deliver detach discharge disconnect disengage disjoin emancipate extricate free liberate manumit mitigate release separate unbar unbolt unbuckle unbutton unchain unclasp unfasten unhitch unhook unlace unlash unleash unloose unpin unstrap
WEAK
become unfastened disenthrall ease off lax let go let out unfix unlatch unsnap unstick untighten work free work loose
Antonyms
STRONGEST
increase tighten
STRONG
attach button combine confine connect couple detain engage fasten hitch hold hook imprison incarcerate join keep limit link restrain unite

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.

Australia has touted its abundant critical minerals as a way to loosen China's grip over global supplies of rare earths.

From Barron's • May 4, 2026

The lawsuit, which has yet to go to trial, seeks a permanent injunction that would prohibit Amazon from engaging in unlawful conduct and loosen its “monopolistic control to restore competition.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

But after Argentine MPs this week passed government reforms to loosen the protection of glaciers, De Valle fears her vineyard's water supply is under threat.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

But Iran isn’t showing a willingness to loosen its grip.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

“Hey, Dad, why do you love me more than any of your other children?” she began, hoping to loosen him up with humor.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

Vocabulary lists containing loosen

"The Earth Under Sky Bear's Feet"

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