loosen

loos-en · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To make or become less tight or firm.

  2. 2.

    To make or become less strict or severe.

  3. 3.

    To relax one's grip or hold on something.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    loosen up — To relax, become less tense; to warm up before exercise
  • •
    loosen one's tongue — To make someone talk more freely, often through alcohol
  • •
    loosen the purse strings — To spend money more freely

Related words

Antonyms: fasten, secure, tighten
See also: ease, loose, relax, slacken
Synonyms: ease, relax, release, slacken, unfasten

Etymology

From Middle English losen + -en (verbal suffix). Related to loose.