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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.

The militia attacks have strained ties between Iraq’s government and its Gulf neighbors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

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

But negotiations between UC and AFSCME, which routinely protests UC Board of Regents meetings and at events with UC President James B. Milliken, have become strained.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 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

Jack’s legs buckled under him and his arms strained like they never had before as the Mirror pushed down on him harder and harder.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley