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Showing results for tighten.
Definitions

tighten

[tahyt-n] / ˈtaɪt n /
VERB
constrict
Synonyms
STRONGEST
narrow stiffen toughen
STRONG
bind clench close compress condense congeal contract cramp crush fasten fix grip harden pinch pressure rigidify screw secure squeeze strain strangle stretch tauten tense
Antonyms
STRONGEST
untighten
STRONG
allow compress concentrate enlarge expand extend free give help increase lengthen let go loose loosen lose melt open release stretch uncompress unfasten untie
WEAK
relax

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.

He dismissed rising concern among some Iranians that internal security will tighten further.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

“Selling assets would be extremely disruptive to financial markets. It would tighten financial conditions and result in notably lower risk-asset values,” he said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

"Often, it's just a mistake. Sometimes all it takes is making people more aware of these things to tighten up some processes."

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

The situation will worsen further if energy supply dislocations extend into next year, inflation expectations become markedly less anchored, and financial conditions tighten sharply.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

If I could get some thread, maybe I could tighten the waist and make her torn dress into a blouse.

From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron