Synonyms of neaten

neaten

verb

ˈnē-tᵊn 

as in to trim

to make neat

neatened the living room in anticipation of company

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trim
• organize
• arrange
• straighten (up or out)
• dispose
• spruce (up)
• order
• systematize
• tidy (up)
• classify
• redd (up or out)
• codify
• pick up
• array
• marshal
• draw up
• range

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disrupt
• disarrange
• disorganize
• upset
• disturb
• muddle
• mix (up)
• disarray
• tumble
• scramble
• shuffle
• muss
• jumble
• disorder
• discompose
• mess (up)
• tousle
• rumple
• dishevel

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of neaten

Hydrangeas that only bloom on the current year's fresh, green growth (also referred to as new wood) should be neatened up or cut back in early spring, well before the arrival of summer. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 6 May 2026

Several people milled around, neatening the area, touching up Cage’s makeup. —Susan Orlean, New Yorker, 11 Oct. 2025

To neaten up the drawer, use clear or white plastic magazine or file holders nestled side by side to hold boxes and packages of frozen foods. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025

Fringes usually require neatening up every two to three weeks, and helpfully, many hairdressers offer free fringe trims in between salon visits. —Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 31 May 2024