strained

adjective

\ ˈstrānd

Definition of strained

1 : done or produced with excessive effort

2 : pushed by antagonism near to open conflict strained relations

Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about strained

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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 on the Web

Bozeman got 27 reps on the bench press despite dropping nearly 30 pounds during the two months leading up to the pro day and despite being limited some by a strained chest muscle. — Matt Zenitz, AL.com, "How a 'mini Scott Cochran' is helping Alabama's NFL draft prospects," 22 Mar. 2018 The Mariners have a spot for Suzuki because Ben Gamel, another left-handed-hitting outfielder, may miss six weeks with a strained oblique muscle. — Tyler Kepner, New York Times, "Ichiro Suzuki and Tim Lincecum: Dimmed Stars With Fuel to Burn," 7 Mar. 2018 Eickhoff has been on the disabled list because of a strained muscle in his upper back. — Scott Lauber, Philly.com, "Struggling Phillies rookie Scott Kingery feels a hot streak coming," 25 May 2018 Robbie Ray is out for at least a month with a strained oblique muscle. — Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY, "Is Diamondbacks-Astros a World Series preview? The D'backs aren't afraid to dream," 4 May 2018 The Reds were held to three hits against Wade Miley, who made his season debut following a stretch on the disabled list with a strained groin muscle, in a 3-1 loss at Great American Ball Park. — Bobby Nightengale, Cincinnati.com, "Cincinnati Reds pitcher Luis Castillo bounces back with solid outing in loss to Milwaukee Brewers," 2 May 2018 Stacy Lewis has not played since the season opener in the Bahamas because of a strained oblique muscle. — Dennis Manoloff, cleveland.com, "LPGA Tour 2018: Live leaderboard for Kia Classic final round," 25 Mar. 2018 First came the report that Jeff Samardzija would be out up to five weeks because of a strained right pectoral muscle. — Pete Grathoff, kansascity, "Here is Royals' Whit Merrifield's line drive that broke Madison Bumgarner's finger | The Kansas City Star," 24 Mar. 2018 Beyond air quality, another primary concern to take into consideration during such strained times, and one worth addressing immediately, is the state of your emotional well-being. — Calin Van Paris, Vogue, "For Those Grappling With California Wildfires, Dangerous Air Quality Is a New Risk," 16 Nov. 2018

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.