Definition of straightennext
as in to unbend
to cause to follow a line that is without bends or curls straighten that extension cord—it should be just long enough to reach the wall outlet

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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 straighten Her hair is still red, but now straightened and shortened into a bob; the curly and queenly aura is now history in favor of something that is even h-o-t-t-e-r-t-o-go. Chris Willman, Variety, 30 Aug. 2026 Minimize Heat Exposure To protect against heat damage, Walker-Rodgers suggests always using a heat protectant spray or cream before blowing out, curling, or straightening your hair. Sarah Madaus, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026 Others in group were skilled at straightening delicate headstones in a way that prevents damage, said former American Legion Auxiliary National President Lisa Williamson. Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 28 Aug. 2026 Wall Sit Wall sits strengthen your quads without repeatedly bending and straightening your knees. Jakob Roze, HEALTH, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for straighten
Recent Examples of Synonyms for straighten
Verb
  • Without unbending her back, the mother arranges her mouth into a placid line.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Dec. 2025
  • The social hierarchy is unbending, but Flora knows she is destined for something greater, even though this puts her at odds with her superiors.
    Vogue, Vogue, 29 July 2025
Verb
  • One fall day in 1856, a family of Eastern gray squirrels in rural New York uncurled from a cozy nest in a chestnut tree, looked around, and joined half a billion other squirrels on a multi-state walkabout.
    Christine Peterson, Vox, 23 Dec. 2024
  • Exhale, lower the bridge down, then uncurl the trunk to bring the right hip and shoulder back to the ground.
    Jen Murphy, WSJ, 16 June 2022

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Cite this Entry

“Straighten.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/straighten. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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