loosens

VERB

set free; unbind

Synonyms

WEAK

alleviate become unfastened break up deliver detach discharge disconnect disengage disenthrall disjoin ease ease off emancipate extricate free let go let out liberate manumit mitigate relax release separate slacken unbar unbolt unbuckle unbutton unchain unclasp undo unfasten unfix unhitch unhook unlace unlash unlatch unleash unlock unloose unpin unscrew unsnap unstick unstrap untie untighten work free work loose

Antonyms

WEAK

bind limit restrict tighten

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.

“A flurry of tankers have taken the chance to exit the gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran loosens its grip on the key waterway under conditions stipulated under the agreement,” the analysts add.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

The move loosens rules meant to restrict hydroflourocarbons, a class of climate-damaging chemicals used in cooling equipment.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

It loosens them up a little and helps avoid cracks.

From Salon • May 5, 2026

Some bigger changes will take place next week as high pressure loosens its grip.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

He loosens his tie, settling in with a drink.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin