strained
Americanadjective
adjective
-
(of an action, performance, etc) not natural or spontaneous
-
(of an atmosphere, relationship, etc) not relaxed; tense
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of strained
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at strain 1, -ed 2
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.
Peeling produces a slightly cleaner finished syrup, but because the mixture will eventually be strained, leaving the skins on works perfectly well.
From Salon ● Aug. 16, 2026
The long war against Hamas severely strained it.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 11, 2026
That’s not a sentiment against true love; it’s more a nod to strained credibility and a feeling of general exhaustion.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 7, 2026
Maybe she thinks she needs to lay out a strained justification for her circa-2020 comments in order to demonstrate an inner conviction to the public.
From Slate ● Aug. 4, 2026
I strained for a response, but nothing came out.
From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
