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

Or could the head of the country's supreme audit institution, another Socialist named Pierre Moscovici, help straighten the country's finances?

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

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

From BBC • Sep. 27, 2025

Then Alice would stand up and straighten her dress and pat her hair and carry the note in both hands out in front of her as if it was news from God.

From "The Best School Year Ever" by Barbara Robinson

Vocabulary lists containing straighten

List 10

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Spelling Practice 3, Unit 4

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