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
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This method improves sun exposure and airflow in steep terrain.—
Emily Price,
Forbes.com,
24 Jan. 2026 -
But the impact won’t be meaningful unless the accuracy of the models improves.—
Reed Albergotti,
semafor.com,
23 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Acura gave Teggy trims its top-level nine-inch infotainment screen with very seamless and no-nonsense software, standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, two USB-C outlets and a wireless phone charger.—
Peter Nelson,
Forbes.com,
19 Jan. 2026
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To keep my beard looking attractive, a hairstylist trims it every two weeks.—
Abigail Van Buren,
Boston Herald,
24 Dec. 2025
Verb
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However, if the prisoner behaves poorly, their level will be dropped.—
Ashlynd Baecht,
The Frontier,
6 Jan. 2026
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The New Science of Metabolic Influence Emerging university research suggests that metabolic health may quietly influence how the hair cycle behaves.—
Connie Etemadi,
Miami Herald,
31 Dec. 2025
Verb
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Until Verizon amends its complaint and the judge rules on the emergency request, there is no court directive preventing the association from moving forward with the rooftop work that Verizon says would interrupt wireless service in the area.—
David Hudnall,
Kansas City Star,
6 Jan. 2026
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Legal hurdles to a kei-style revolution could theoretically be swept away if Congress amends the Safety Act or passes new legislation encouraging their use.—
Mithil Aggarwal,
NBC news,
25 Dec. 2025
Verb
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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 29 Jan. 2026.
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