Definition of "tighten" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To make tighter.

   • Please tighten that screw a quarter-turn.

2. (intransitive) To become tighter.

   • That joint is tightening as the wood dries.

3. (economics) To make money harder to borrow or obtain.

   • If the government doesn't tighten the money supply, inflation is certain to be harsh.

4. (economics) To raise short-term interest rates.

   • The Fed is expected to tighten by a quarter-point.