1
as in improves
to change one's behavior or character for the better
I hope that rehab will help her straighten up for good
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in trims
to make neat
a directive for everyone to straighten up their cubicle in preparation for a visit from some corporate VIPs
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for straightens (up or out)
Verb
-
Adjust the inputs and the output improves.—
Allison Palmer,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
17 Apr. 2026 -
One of the easiest ways to revive it is by mixing in fresh compost, which improves both texture and nutrient content.—
Jessica Safavimehr,
Southern Living,
16 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The third round of voting trims the field to four restaurants.—
Susan Stapleton,
Des Moines Register,
25 Mar. 2026
-
The Yale Repertory Theatre is using a 2019 adaptation by Frank Galati, which takes the standard Derek Prouse translation which has been around nearly as long as Ionesco original French script and trims it judiciously for maximum theatrical impact.—
Christopher Arnott,
Hartford Courant,
18 Mar. 2026
Verb
-
The experiments were conducted using a material known as hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), where light behaves in an unusual way.—
Prabhat Ranjan Mishra,
Interesting Engineering,
17 Apr. 2026
-
For the scientists who identified and described the species, the footage offers their first opportunity to observe how Cryptodrassus michaeli behaves.—
Hanna Wickes,
Charlotte Observer,
15 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The Sánchez government's measure was fast-tracked via a decree that amends immigration laws.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
14 Apr. 2026
-
The Sánchez government’s measure was fast-tracked via a decree that amends immigration laws.—
Suman Naishadham,
Los Angeles Times,
14 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Kentucky's General Assembly has passed House Bill 2, which reforms the state's Medicaid program.—
Keely Doll,
Louisville Courier Journal,
2 Apr. 2026
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But again, even if FDA reforms its work here, states should still be allowed to take additional steps above a federal floor.—
Jasmine Laws,
MSNBC Newsweek,
29 Oct. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Straightens (up or out).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/straightens%20%28up%20or%20out%29. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.
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