Pronunciation

/streɪn/

Definitions

Noun

1. Physical effort or stress on the body, especially when causing discomfort or pain: She felt the strain on her muscles after the long hike.
2. Tension or emotional strain: The family was under financial strain due to the unexpected expenses.
3. A particular strain of something (plants, bacteria, etc.): A rare strain of rice that is resistant to pests.
4. A specific type or category: Genetic strains of dogs.

Verb

1. To exert force or effort: He strained his neck to look up at the tall building.
2. To stretch or pull something to its limit: She strained to hear what the speaker was saying.
3. To cause emotional or mental tension: The job was putting a strain on her relationships.

Adjective

1. Under tension or stress: The rope was under strain from the heavy load.
2. Distinctive or unique: The vintage car had a distinct engine strain.

Adverb

1. With great effort: He strained every muscle to finish the race.

Phrases

• “Under too much strain”
• “Ease the strain”
• “Put strain on something”
• “The strain of responsibility”

Example Sentences

• Noun: The marathon runner felt the strain in their legs as they approached the finish line.
• Verb: She strained her ears to catch the whispered conversation.
• Adjective: The old bridge was showing signs of strain from heavy traffic.
• Adverb: He strained every ounce of energy to complete the project on time.

Synonyms

• Strain (noun): Tension, stress, effort, exertion
• Strain (verb): Exert, stretch, push, struggle
• Strained (adjective): Tense, stressed, strained-out, overtaxed
• Straining (adverb): Heavily, strenuously, with effort