straiten
UK: ˈstreɪt(ə)n | US: ˈstreɪt(ə)n
vt. 1. To restrict or confine, often financially or spatially.
vt. 2. To cause distress or difficulty.
"Straiten" evolved from the adjective "strait" (meaning narrow or tight), which entered English via Old French from Latin "strictus." The addition of the suffix "-en" transformed it into a verb, originally implying physical constriction but later extending to metaphorical or financial constraints. The word reflects a logical progression from literal tightness to abstract limitation.
The economic crisis straitened many families, forcing them to cut expenses.
The narrow path straitened as we climbed higher.
His strict rules straitened her freedom.
War straitened the country's resources.
The new regulations straitened small businesses.