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Straighten - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To straighten means to make something neat, orderly, or free from bends or curves. It can refer to physical objects, like hair or a path, or abstract things, like resolving a misunderstanding.

straighten

/ˈstreɪtən/ /ˈstreɪt(ə)n/

Definition:

To make something straight or orderly, or to correct posture or alignment.

Synonyms:

align, adjust, correct, tidy, unbend

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

bend, twist, curve

Common Collocations:

straighten hair, straighten up, straighten a tie, straighten the room

Derivatives:

straightener, straightening

Usage Tips:

Use "straighten" for physical alignment or tidying; often paired with objects like hair or rooms.

Common Phrases:

straighten up and fly right, straighten things out, get something straightened out

Etymology:

Derived from "straight," from Old English "streht," meaning stretched or direct.

Examples:

  • 1. She used a comb to straighten her tangled hair.
  • 2. He paused to straighten his crooked tie before the meeting.
  • 3. The teacher asked the students to straighten their desks in neat rows.
  • 4. Can you help me straighten this picture on the wall?

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