STRAIGHTENING Synonyms: 29 Similar and Opposite Words

straightening

verb

present participle of straighten

as in uncurling

to cause to follow a line that is without bends or curls straighten that extension cord—it should be just long enough to reach the wall outlet

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 straightening What are the risks and downsides of Japanese hair straightening? — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026 Smooth layered hair with hair straightening products, then style with a flat iron for long, lustrous locks. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2026 Minimize Heat Exposure To protect against heat damage, Walker-Rodgers suggests always using a heat protectant spray or cream before blowing out, curling, or straightening your hair. — Sarah Madaus, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026 Others in group were skilled at straightening delicate headstones in a way that prevents damage, said former American Legion Auxiliary National President Lisa Williamson. — Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 28 Aug. 2026 Press your hands toward the floor by straightening your elbows. — Jakob Roze, HEALTH, 19 Aug. 2026 Improvements include adding a third westbound express lane, straightening roadway curves, replacing aging bridges, and improving traffic flow and safety throughout the corridor. — Kelly Werthmann, CBS News, 30 July 2026 Cropping and Noise Reduction The Crop tool includes straightening with an on-screen protractor for angle measurement. — Michael Muchmore, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026 For Straight, Hydrated Strands Wavytalk The steam technology in this straightening tool infuses moisture into your hair, reduces frizz and minimizes heat damage while delivering sleek, pin-straight results. — V Brand Stories, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for straightening

Verb

Without unbending her back, the mother arranges her mouth into a placid line.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Dec. 2025

Definition of unbending

Verb

The company has also been deliberate in unwinding its previous reliance on legacy franchises, such as the Dunk and Air Force 1 shoes.

— Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
The Memphis Grizzlies are starting a new era this season after the franchise spent the last year unwinding its last one.

— Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2026