1
general::
Phrase(s): straighten someone or something up
1. to put someone or something into an upright position. • The fence is tilted. Please straighten that post up when you get a chance. • Bill, you’re slouching again. Straighten up your back. 2. to tidy up someone or something. • John straightened himself up a little before going out for dinner. • This room is a mess. Let’s straighten up this place, right now!, Phrase(s): straighten up
1. to sit or stand more straight. • Billy’s mother told him to straighten up or he’d fall out of his chair. • John straightened up so he’d look taller. 2. to behave better. • Bill was acting badly for a while; then he straightened up. • Sally, straighten up, or I will punish you!
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs