Definition of strain
(Entry 1 of 3)
b : a group of presumed common ancestry with clear-cut physiological but usually not morphological distinctions
a high-yielding strain of winter wheat broadly : a specified infraspecific group (such as a stock, line, or ecotype)
2a : inherited or inherent character, quality, or disposition
a strain of weakness in the family
b : a passage of verbal or musical expression
c : a stream or outburst of forceful or impassioned speech
strain
verbstrained; straining; strains
Definition of strain (Entry 2 of 3)
1a : to draw tight : cause to fit firmly
strain the bandage over the wound
b : to stretch to maximum extension and tautness
strain a canvas over a frame
2a : to exert (oneself, one's senses, etc.) to the utmost
b : to injure by overuse, misuse, or excessive pressure
strained his back
c : to cause a change of form or size in (a body) by application of external force
b : to remove by straining strain lumps out of the gravy
5 : to stretch beyond a proper limit
that story strains my credulity
1a : to make violent efforts : strive has to strain to reach the high notes
b : to pull against resistance
a dog straining at its leash
c : to contract the muscles forcefully in attempting to defecate
—often used in the phrase strain at stool
2 : to pass through or as if through a strainer
the liquid strains readily
3 : to make great difficulty or resistance : balk
strain a point
: to go beyond a usual, accepted, or proper limit or rule
strain
noun (2)Definition of strain (Entry 3 of 3)
a : bodily injury from excessive tension, effort, or use
heart strain especially : one resulting from a wrench or twist and involving undue stretching of muscles or ligaments back strain
b : excessive or difficult exertion or labor
c : excessive physical or mental tension also : a force, influence, or factor causing such tension a strain on the marriage
d : deformation of a material body under the action of applied forces
2 : an unusual reach, degree, or intensity : pitch
3 archaic : a strained interpretation of something said or written
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Time Traveler for strain
The first known use of strain was in the 13th century
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