ˈtīt ə n verb
( tightened ; tightened ; tightening -t( ə )niŋ ; tightens )
Etymology: tight (I) + -en
transitive verb
: to make tight or tighter
tighten a belt
tighten economic controls
tightens his hand on a steering wheel
— often used with up
tighten up a bolt
intransitive verb
: to become tight or tighter
money tightened after the war
the drying rawhide tightening in the sun
as
a. : to become tense
muscles tightening with fatigue
b. : to become more complete or adequate : improve
controls gradually tightened
his act tightened considerably
•
- tighten one's belt