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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

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

“Hey, Reb, something’s the matter,” Frankie said, his voice strained as tightly as the cords Meir knotted.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros