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Showing results for strained.
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.

If your friend has regularly taken loans and not repaid them, that has likely strained your relationship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

In a system already strained by disruption, control over where supply clears becomes a source of leverage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

The foreclosure ruined her retirement plans, Acevedo said, adding that the challenges strained her marriage and eventually led to divorce.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026

With the financial situation already strained, the government is also worried that they will lose foreign exchange inflows due to the Gulf war.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Wind foamed the sea, rocked the boat, and whipped at their clothes as they strained to get ashore.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu