LOOSEN (UP) Synonyms: 75 Similar and Opposite Words

loosen (up) 1 of 2

verb (1)

Definition of loosen (up) next

as in to facilitate

to free from obstruction or difficulty hoped that adding a second lane would loosen up traffic on that street

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

loosen up

2 of 2

verb (2)

as in to relax

to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety a high-pressure job that makes it hard for him to loosen up even on weekends

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

tense (up)

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of loosen (up)

Verb

Pick up any grime the steam loosened up and wipe down the tiles as well as the grout. —

Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 18 May 2026 The Hornets came out inspired after Hedrick challenged his team to loosen up. —

Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 May 2026 Let your guard down and loosen up a bit! —

Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 15 May 2026 This helps loosen up anything smelly that might be stuck to the blades. —

Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for loosen (up)

Recent Examples of Synonyms for loosen (up)

Verb

Money is just the agreed upon measure of value used by producers to facilitate the exchange.

— John Tamny, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026
The family claims Roblox's recommendation systems, communication features, and lack of meaningful age-verification safeguards helped facilitate the abuse.

— Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026