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

She says every effort thereafter to straighten things out met the runaround.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 19, 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 straighten my pencil, my folder, and my book so they’re all perfectly lined up with even spaces between each item.

From "Popcorn" by Rob Harrell