loosen
UK: ˈluːs(ə)n | US: ˈluːs(ə)n
vt. to make less tight or firm
vi. to become less tight or firm
vt. to make less strict or rigid (e.g., rules)
vi. to become less dense or compact (e.g., soil)
The word "loosen" combines the adjective "loose" (from Old Norse lauss, meaning "free" or "unbound") with the verb-forming suffix "-en," which originates from Old English -nian. This suffix was used to create verbs meaning "to make or become [adjective]." Over time, "loosen" evolved to describe both the act of making something less tight and the state of becoming less constrained, reflecting its dual verbal function. The logic is straightforward: "loose" (state) + "-en" (action) = "to make/become loose."
She tried to loosen the knot with her fingers.
The government decided to loosen restrictions on travel.
Over time, the soil will loosen after heavy rain.
He stretched to loosen his stiff muscles.
The screw began to loosen after repeated use.