Loosen - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Loosen means to make something less tight or rigid, such as loosening a knot or a screw. It can also refer to relaxing rules, restrictions, or one’s muscles.
Definition:
To make less tight or firm, or to relax rules or restrictions.
Synonyms:
slacken, relax, untie, ease
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
tighten, fasten, constrict
Common Collocations:
loosen a tie, loosen restrictions, loosen soil, loosen grip
Derivatives:
loosened, loosening, looseness
Usage Tips:
Use "loosen" for physical actions (like knots) or abstract concepts (like rules), often followed by "up" for relaxation.
Common Phrases:
loosen up, loosen the reins, loosen one's grip
Etymology:
Derived from Old English *lōsian*, meaning "to lose" or "set free," related to *lēas* (loose).
Examples:
- 1. She loosened her shoelaces after the run.
- 2. The government decided to loosen travel restrictions next month.
- 3. He tried to loosen the jar lid but couldn’t.
- 4. Stretching helps loosen stiff muscles before exercise.