straightening (out)

verb

present participle of straighten (out)
as in smoothing

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for straightening (out)
  1. smoothing
  2. fraying
Verb
  • The 2026 Best of Beauty-winning formula uses the brand’s 3D Lip Complex, which blends bidens pilosa extract—known for its anti-inflammatory properties and smoothing effect—with cotton seed and linseed oil to help even texture and soften the skin.
    — Tasha Nicole Smith, Allure, 2 Nov. 2026
  • It’s made with Bioheal’s signature Probioderm complex, the same fine-line-smoothing ingredient that landed the brand’s eye cream on Vogue’s list of the best Korean formulas.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of smoothing
Verb
  • Out of practice and endurance, Dylan’s voice is fraying and weak.
    — Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 7 Nov. 2026
  • In a comprehensive feature story this week, Ars reports on the fraying relationship between SpaceX and NASA.
    — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of fraying
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.

Browse Nearby Words

straightening
straightening (out)
straightening (up)
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Cite this Entry

“Straightening (out).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/straightening%20%28out%29. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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