26984 words

strained

4 definitions • 5 examples
1
If a relationship is strained, problems are spoiling it:

Examples:

Relations between the two countries have become strained (= difficult) recently.
2
showing that someone is nervous or worried:

Examples:

She was looking strained and had dark circles beneath her eyes.
Jean felt uncomfortable but managed to force a strained smile.
3
nervous, worried, or having problems:

Examples:

She had a strained expression on her face.
4
injured by too much use or effort:

Examples:

a strained knee

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