Definition of "loosen" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To make loose.

   • to loosen a knot; to loosen one's grip / hold on something
   • After the Thanksgiving meal, Bill loosened his belt.
   • 1626, Francis Bacon, Sylva Sylvarum: or A Naturall Historie, London: William Lee, Century 5, p. 111, […] after a yeares Rooting, then Shaking doth the Tree good, by Loosening of the Earth […]

2. (intransitive) To become loose.

   • I noticed that my seatbelt had gradually loosened during the journey.

3. (transitive) To disengage (a device that restrains).

4. (intransitive) To become unfastened or undone.

5. (transitive) To free from restraint; to set at liberty.

6. (transitive) To relieve (the bowels) from constipation; to promote defecation.

   • 1626, Francis Bacon, Sylva Sylvarum: or A Naturall Historie, London: William Lee, Century 1, p. 14, […] Feare looseneth the Belly; because the Heat retiring inwards towards the Heart, the Gutts and other Parts are relaxed;

7. (transitive, obsolete) To create a breach or rift between (two parties).

8. (intransitive, obsolete) To sail away (from the shore).