Definitions

strained

[streynd] / streɪnd /

ADJECTIVE

forced, pretended

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constrained labored stiff tense tight uneasy

STRONG

choked embarrassed put wired wreck

WEAK

artificial at end of rope awkward difficult false farfetched hard put in a state nervous wreck self-conscious strung-out taut uncomfortable unglued unnatural unrelaxed uptight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

calm comfortable easy easygoing laid-back loose relaxed slack

WEAK

genuine unforced

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The data come as poverty among older adults increases and people are living longer — and spending more of those years with strained resources.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

Guardiola wiped his face dry with his white t-shirt and tried to regain his composure as his side strained for one final victory under his management.

From BBC • May 24, 2026

While Wünsch is optimistic about AI’s potential to drive scientific breakthroughs, he acknowledged that the AI boom has strained the gaming industry.

From MarketWatch • May 23, 2026

Demand for Anthropic’s products has strained its computing resources and forced it to limit access for certain users.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

His hands were white from pinching, and he shook as he strained against the thread.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack

strained

Example Sentences

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