Strain

Pronunciation: /ˈstreɪn/

Strain (noun)

  1. a force that pulls or stretches something too much
  2. feeling worried or tired because of too much work or problems
  3. a group of plants, animals, or bacteria with similar characteristics

Examples

  • The heavy box put a strain on his back.
  • Lifting weights can cause strain on muscles.

Common collocations: put a strain, muscle strain, reduce strain, emotional strain, under strain

Strain (verb)

  1. to pull or stretch something tightly
  2. to separate solid pieces from a liquid using a sieve or similar tool

Examples

  • He strained to lift the heavy suitcase.
  • She strained to hear the distant music.

Synonyms of Strain

Formal

Neutral

Antonyms of Strain

  • opposite of applying tension
  • opposite of exerting pressure