Synonyms of straighten

straighten 1 of 2

verb (1)

ˈstrā-tᵊn 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unbend
• uncurl
• unkink
• unwind
• uncoil
• unroll
• untwist
• disentangle
• untangle
• untwine

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• curve
• bend
• curl
• bend
• arc
• round
• bow
• turn
• hook
• crook
• twist
• loop
• swirl
• twine
• wind
• kink
• entwine
• spiral
• coil

straighten (up or out)

2 of 2

verb (2)

1

as in to improve

to change one's behavior or character for the better

I hope that rehab will help her straighten up for good

Synonyms & Similar Words

• improve
• shape up
• amend
• behave
• better
• clean up one's act
• reform
• regenerate
• mend

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• regress
• backslide

2

as in to trim

to make neat

a directive for everyone to straighten up their cubicle in preparation for a visit from some corporate VIPs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of straighten

Verb

Worrying about getting heat damage when straightening curly hair is one reason why some might just leave it to the professionals. —Jamie Wilson, Glamour, 2 June 2025

In the clip, which accompanies her Allure cover interview, Kidman laments her decision to straighten her natural texture. —Catherine Santino, People.com, 22 May 2025

Simply spend 60 seconds straightening your sheets, smoothing your comforter or duvet, and fluffing your pillows, and marvel at how the chore instantly makes your entire bedroom look neater. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 May 2025

Companies such as Invisalign use 3D printing to create custom-fit aligners for teeth straightening, demonstrating the ability to personalize dental care. —ArsTechnica, 20 May 2025

Phrases Containing straighten

• straighten (up or out)