tightener

/ˈtaɪtənər/
noun
  1. A device or tool used to make something tighter or more secure.
    • The mechanic reached for a chain tightener to adjust the tension.
    • He used a belt tightener to secure the load on the truck.
    • A cable tightener is essential for installing a sturdy clothesline.
  2. Something that makes a situation stricter or more controlled.
    • The budget acted as a tightener on all non-essential projects.
    • The new policy was a tightener on company spending.
    • Critics called the law a tightener on free speech.
Antonyms
What does "tightener" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean