Definition of strained
1 : done or produced with excessive effort
2 : pushed by antagonism near to open conflict strained relations
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Examples of strained in a Sentence
He made a strained attempt at being polite.
I took the complaint manager's strained smile to mean I wasn't a welcome sight.
Recent Examples of strained from the Web
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But then a strained oblique muscle delayed the start of his season.
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Something has felt a little strained about this season, especially in this episode.
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The invitation was intended to establish ties after months of strained relations during the French campaign.
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He has been sidelined since early spring training because of a strained left elbow.
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Texas Rangers starting pitcher A.J. Griffin left Friday’s opener against the Toronto Blue Jays in the second inning with a strained left intercostal muscle and is headed to the disabled list.
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On any other reality show their strained conversation in line to buy tickets would have been left on the cutting-room floor.
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The fluid increases the pressure already on the strained exoskeleton, allowing the tarantula to break through its weak spots.
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That's led to a strained relationship with the Pentagon.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'strained'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Circa 1542
First Known Use of strained
circa 1542
STRAINED Defined for English Language Learners
strained
playDefinition of strained for English Language Learners
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: feeling or showing the effect of too much work, use, effort, etc.
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: not natural and sincere
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: not friendly and relaxed
STRAINED Defined for Kids
strained
playDefinition of strained for Students
1 : showing the effects of worry and concern a strained voice
2 : not easy or natural a strained smile
3 : not friendly or relaxed Relations between the countries are strained.
Learn More about strained
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See words that rhyme with strained Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for strained Nglish: Translation of strained for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of strained for Arabic speakers
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