straighten (up or out)

verb

Definition of straighten (up or out)next
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for straighten (up or out)
  1. improve
  2. trim
  3. shape up
  4. organize
  5. amend
  6. arrange
  7. behave
  8. better
Verb
  • Many people prefer whole-wheat pasta to increase their fiber intake, support digestive and heart health, and improve the overall nutrient quality of their diet, rather than focusing primarily on protein.
    — Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 8 July 2026
  • However, his office says the former Senate majority leader's health is improving.
    — Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 8 July 2026
Definition of improve
Verb
  • Miller’s exact dress from Debute London, which features a bustier top, lace trim, and a short hemline, is a great example of the details that turn the trend more contemporary, while still nodding to its nostalgic, charming nature.
    — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 3 July 2026
  • Mow regularly and trim your edges, since ticks lurk in tall grass and brush.
    — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
Definition of trim
Verb
  • Capris and cropped pants are shaping up to be one of summer 2026’s biggest trends, making this stretchy cotton pair an excellent score.
    — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 2 July 2026
  • Her appearance is the latest in a string of royal engagements in what is shaping up to be another busy summer for the royal family.
    — Jennifer Hassan, USA Today, 2 July 2026
Definition of shape up
Verb
  • Weave in open storage elements like cubbies—essential for keeping shoes and boots accessible and organized.
    — Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 4 July 2026
  • The flight follows additional aid deliveries from Ecuador and continuing relief efforts organized in Spain, where public institutions, businesses and charitable organizations have raised more than $11 million for earthquake victims.
    — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 4 July 2026
Definition of organize
Verb
  • But even if Costco is unable to amend the site’s zoning plan, it’s not guaranteed that the store would remain a wholesale grocer either.
    — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2026
  • The editors reserve the right to amend any information or remove any listees in light of new information.
    — Phisanu Phromchanya, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026
Definition of amend
Verb
  • The floorplan is arranged with a clear separation between the living areas and private sleeping quarters of the home.
    — Bridget Borgobello July 03, New Atlas, 4 July 2026
  • Bunting arranged this way is appropriate for covering a speaker’s desk, draping the front of a platform or general decoration.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 3 July 2026
Definition of arrange
Verb
  • The simple threat of regulatory action is now enough to impact how media outlets behave.
    — Max Tani, semafor.com, 6 July 2026
  • Different alloy systems will behave differently, and mixing is only one part of the challenge.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 July 2026
Definition of behave
Verb
  • Second in Austria marked Verstappen’s best result of the season — bettering his third in Canada.
    — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 29 June 2026
  • Hale, meanwhile, switched parties last year, arguing that running as a Republican will better his chances at beating Moore.
    — Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Definition of better
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

straighten (up)
straighten (up or out)
straight-faced
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Straighten (up or out).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/straighten%20%28up%20or%20out%29. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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