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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.

South Hadley is a warning sign for financially strained municipalities across the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

The reference is a bit strained because Ernie was extremely bright.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 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

But the movie itself isn’t exactly exploring new frontiers of fear, devolving instead into a familiar slasher-thriller with a climax of strained characterization and confusing spatial logic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Mrs. Kuen finally broke the strained silence and addressed me in Cantonese.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu