Astringes is a relatively obscure word that means to contract or cause to become tight, firm or compact. The antonyms for this word include expand, loosen, relax, and release. These terms represent the opposite meaning of astringes by describing actions that cause something to become loose or more open. For example, when a muscle astringes, it becomes tight and firm, but when it is released or relaxed, it becomes looser and more flexible. Similarly, when a material astringes, it becomes compressed or shrunken, but when it expands or loosens, it becomes more open or malleable. Antonyms are important in clarifying the meaning of words and communicating ideas clearly.