Meaning & Definition of word "Straighten"
to
Straighten
/ˈstreɪ.tən/
verb:
- 1. to make something straight or to restore to a straight condition.
- Example: She tried to straighten the bent metal rod.
- 2. to make a situation or behavior more orderly or correct.
- Example: The manager stepped in to straighten out the confusion among the team members.
- 3. to remove any bends or curves from something.
- Example: He used a ruler to straighten the line on the paper.
Etymology
Combination of 'straight' (Middle English) + '-en' (verb-forming suffix)
Common Phrases and Expressions
straighten things out:
to resolve a problem or clarify a situation
straighten up:
to tidy or organize
straighten one's tie:
to adjust one's tie, usually before a formal occasion
Related Words
straight:
having no bends, curves, or irregularities
straightforward:
easy to understand or simple
alignment:
arrangement in a straight line
Slang Meanings of straighten
Meaning: to fix or sort out a situation
Example Sentence: I need to straighten this out with my boss.
Meaning: to arrange oneself or one's life in a more orderly fashion
Example Sentence: After the breakup, she really needs to straighten herself out.