FASTEN Synonyms: 119 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'fasten' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of fasten are affix , attach , and fix . While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing. // fasten the reins to a post

Q: When is it sensible to use 'affix' instead of 'fasten'?

In some situations, the words affix and fasten are roughly equivalent. However, affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing. // affix your address label here

Q: When could 'attach' be used to replace 'fasten'?

Although the words attach and fasten have much in common, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together. // attach the W-2 form here

Q: When can 'fix' be used instead of 'fasten'?

While the synonyms fix and fasten are close in meaning, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding. // fixed the stake in the ground

fasten

verb

ˈfa-sᵊn

Definition of fasten next

as in to attach

to cause (something) to hold to another use this paper clip to fasten your picture to the application form

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to secure

to put securely in place or in a desired position don't forget to fasten all the lines on your tent

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to focus

to fix (as one's attention) steadily toward a central objective if you could fasten your attention on one task for more than a minute, you just might get something done

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fasten distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of fasten are affix, attach, and fix. While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing.

fasten the reins to a post

When is it sensible to use affix instead of fasten?

In some situations, the words affix and fasten are roughly equivalent. However, affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing.

affix your address label here

When could attach be used to replace fasten?

Although the words attach and fasten have much in common, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together.

attach the W-2 form here

When can fix be used instead of fasten?

While the synonyms fix and fasten are close in meaning, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding.

fixed the stake in the ground

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of fasten If bokashi bins get too dry, add more moisture-rich food scraps and make sure your composter lid is fastened tight. —

Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Jan. 2025 Along with the hooded detail, the dress boasted a shimmering broach, which was fastened to one of the two straps of Barbaro’s dress. —

Julia Teti, WWD, 14 Jan. 2025 The agency recommends keeping seat belts fastened at all times, and listening for safety briefings and communications from the flight crew to stay safe during turbulence. —

Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2025 If Pittsburgh wins, the Chargers will be fastened to the No. 6 spot. —

Steven Louis Goldstein, The Athletic, 5 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fasten

Recent Examples of Synonyms for fasten

Verb

The scientists proceeded to attach their nanoflowers to strips of electrospun nanofiber fabric.

— Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 8 Feb. 2025
This season’s sweater trends include cardigans, sporty styles, and sweaters with scarves attached.

— Gabrielle Porcaro, Travel + Leisure, 8 Feb. 2025