Make less tight

LOOSEN

Think of what you might do to a knot or a jar lid when it's too firmly secured. This action is the opposite of tightening.

"Make less tight" is a straightforward definition clue pointing to "loosen," which means to relax or undo tension. The word fits perfectly as it directly describes the action of making something like a knot, screw, or rule less restrictive. There’s no hidden wordplay here—just a clear, literal connection between the clue and the answer. Think of untightening a jar lid or easing up on strict rules.