straighten

[streyt-n] / ˈstreɪt n /

VERB

put in neat or aligned order

Synonyms

STRONGEST

rectify uncoil

STRONG

align arrange compose correct even level neaten order tidy unbend uncurl unfold unravel unsnarl untwist

WEAK

make plumb make straight put in order put perpendicular put straight put to rights put upright put vertical set to rights smarten up spruce up

Antonyms

STRONG

disarrange disorder disorganize disperse mess up mix up scatter

WEAK

bend curve move twist

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.

I rarely straighten my mop of thick, curly hair, and when I do, it’s not always a great experience.

From Salon • Feb. 2, 2026

“You have New Orleans, which has a crime problem. We’ll straighten that out in two weeks, easier than D.C.,”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 3, 2025

It took a meeting with the inflation-slaying giant of a former Fed chair, Paul Volcker, to straighten him out.

From Barron's • Oct. 8, 2025

Her forfeit was to straighten her mop of curly hair for the team's evening meal.

From BBC • Sep. 27, 2025

I stare Tressa in the eye and straighten my back.

From "Shouting at the Rain" by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Vocabulary lists containing straighten

List 10

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"The Giving Tree"

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Spelling Practice 3, Unit 4

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