strain
verb (used with object)
to draw tight or taut, especially to the utmost tension; stretch to the full.
is straining
-
present progressiveof strain (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
The world’s demand for artificial-intelligence chips is straining the industry’s ability to produce essential materials, creating new pressure points.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026
The speed of the AI buildout is straining America’s skilled electricity workforce.
From Barron's ● May 4, 2026
Anthropic said in an online post that fast growth is straining its infrastructure, which can affect reliability and performance for free and paid users.
From Barron's ● Apr. 21, 2026
That includes Iran, which is straining under a historic drought made worse by years of mismanagement, while climate change jacks up temperatures and reduces rainfall.
From Salon ● Mar. 17, 2026
My body is straining toward him, every muscle, but I know there’s nothing I can do for him right now.
From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth
