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.

For supporters, the effort represents a long-promised attempt to tighten immigration controls and redefine American citizenship more narrowly.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Thursday, Ofcom's chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes said the media regulator will tighten its guidance around reality shows if necessary.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

Physical supplies of oil are continuing to tighten, with exports through the Strait of Hormuz 95% below normal levels, according to analysts at Goldman Sachs, led by Yulia Zhestkova Grigsby, senior commodities strategist.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

The company is working to sign bigger clients and has taken steps to tighten its belt, including cutting staff and using AI to improve efficiency.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

I climb out on the plank and tighten up the ropes some and then there’s nothing to do but wait.

From "The Young Man and the Sea" by Rodman Philbrick

tighten

Example Sentences

Related Words