tighten

[ˈtaɪtn]

tighten Definition

• 1. to make something become tighter or more fixed in its position
• 2. to become tighter or more fixed in position

Using tighten: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tighten" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He tightened the screws on the chair.

• Example

  She tightened her grip on the steering wheel.

• Example

  The government is tightening security measures at the airport.

• Example

  The company is tightening its budget to save money.

tighten Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tighten

• fasten
• secure
• strengthen

Antonyms for tighten

• loosen
• relax
• weaken

Phrases with tighten

• tighten one's belt

  to reduce one's spending or consumption of something

  Example

  With the economy in a downturn, many families are having to tighten their belts.

• tighten the noose

  to increase pressure on someone or something in order to force a particular outcome

  Example

  The police are tightening the noose on the suspect, hoping to catch him soon.

• tighten up

  to become more strict or efficient

  Example

  We need to tighten up our procedures to avoid mistakes.

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Summary: tighten in Brief

The verb 'tighten' [ˈtaɪtn] means to make something become tighter or more fixed in its position, or to become tighter or more fixed in position. It can refer to physical objects like screws and belts, as well as abstract concepts like budgets and security measures. The phrase 'tighten one's belt' denotes reducing spending, while 'tighten the noose' implies increasing pressure to force an outcome. 'Tighten up' means to become more strict or efficient.