strain
verb (used with object)
to draw tight or taut, especially to the utmost tension; stretch to the full.
straining
-
present participleof strain.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
They’re straining the grid and making people fret about their utility bills.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 13, 2026
Instead of straining vegetables and pasta, you can use a colander to achieve a similar effect to that of the pinhole projector.
From BBC ● Aug. 11, 2026
Chief Executive David Zaslav opted not to renew the pricey basketball contract as Warner has been straining to pay down debt brought on by its last merger in 2022.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 6, 2026
Persistent risks to regional shipping could push oil well above $100 a barrel, analysts say, stoking inflation and straining an already fragile global economy.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 26, 2026
Not even when I passed John Henry straining against the grasp of several bosslings.
From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia
