TIGHTEN Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

tighten

verb

ˈtī-tᵊn

Definition of tighten next

as in to tense

to draw tight tighten the straps on the backpack so that the load doesn't shift while hiking

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 tighten As temperatures soar, some French destinations are again tightening dress rules and issuing fines to remind visitors that what’s acceptable on the sand may not be in town. —

Alex Ledsom, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 But even Apple has limits when an entire market tightens. —

Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026 Many companies are also tightening restrictions for employees to qualify. —

Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 26 June 2026 If the Nets chase another wing, such as Denver’s Peyton Watson, the upside rises but the minute squeeze tightens again. —

C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for tighten

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tighten

Verb

Be a good child, do what they’re told, be the best child, a tremble in their hands, say nothing, tensed for the knock on the door.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 June 2026
Instead, he was intrigued by a scene in which Back visibly tensed up after the producers told him he was suspected of being Satoshi.

— Frank Landymore, Futurism, 9 Apr. 2026

Definition of tense

Verb

Work began this month on Cole Ranch in south Denton, a 4,365-home community along the booming Interstate 35W corridor that stretches to FM 1171 in Flower Mound.

— Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 June 2026
Christensen suggests the state should instead focus on stripping back environmental regulations that make brush clearance and fire prevention costly, which would ensure state firefighters are not working excessive overtime and the state budget is not being stretched beyond its means.

— Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026