Tightened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฉ
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tightened

[หˆtaษชtษ™nd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

Tightened refers to the act of making something tighter, which often involves applying force to reduce slack or looseness. This can apply to various objects such as a rope, belt, or screw. When something is tightened, the goal is to improve its stability or functionality. In practical terms, one might tighten a screw to secure an object or tighten a belt for a better fit around the waist.

Synonyms

fastened, firmed, secured.

Examples of usage

  • He tightened the belt before going for a run.
  • She tightened the screws on the chair to prevent it from wobbling.
  • The mechanic tightened the bolts on the engine.

Translations

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Origin of 'tightened'

The word 'tighten' is derived from the Old English word 'tฤซhte,' which means 'to make tight' or 'to tighten.' The root 'tight' has been in use since the early Middle Ages in various forms, including 'tiรฐ,' and it conveys the idea of being snug or close-fitting. The suffix '-en' is commonly used in English to form verbs from adjectives, implying the action of causing a state. Thus, 'tight' (adjective), combined with '-en', evolved into 'tighten' (verb), reflecting the action of making something tight. This transformation captures the action-oriented nature of the word and showcases how language adapts to describe physical changes in objects and their states.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,275, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.