English dictionary
strain
/str/eI/n/
Definitions, examples, synonyms and antonyms from WordNet 3.0.
noun
-
(physics) deformation of a physical body under the action of applied forces
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
difficulty that causes worry or emotional tension
ExamplesShe endured the stresses and strains of life.
Synonyms stressSource: WordNet 3.0
-
a succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
(psychology) nervousness resulting from mental stress
ExamplesHis responsibilities were a constant strain.
The mental strain of staying alert hour after hour was too much for him.
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
a special variety of domesticated animals within a species
ExamplesHe created a new strain of sheep.
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
(biology) a group of organisms within a species that differ in trivial ways from similar groups
ExamplesA new strain of microorganisms.
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
injury to a muscle (often caused by overuse); results in swelling and pain
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
the general meaning or substance of an utterance
Synonyms tenorSource: WordNet 3.0
-
an effortful attempt to attain a goal
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
an intense or violent exertion
Synonyms strainingSource: WordNet 3.0
-
the act of singing
Synonyms songSource: WordNet 3.0
-
Race; stock; generation; descent; family.
Source: webster1913
-
The act of straining, or the state of being strained.
Source: webster1913
-
A cultural subvariety that is only slightly differentiated.
Source: webster1913
verb
-
to exert much effort or energy
ExamplesStraining our ears to hear.
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
test the limits of
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
use to the utmost; exert vigorously or to full capacity
ExamplesDon't strain your mind too much.
Synonyms extendSource: WordNet 3.0
-
separate by passing through a sieve or other straining device to separate out coarser elements
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
cause to be tense and uneasy or nervous or anxious
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
become stretched or tense or taut
ExamplesThe rope strained when the weight was attached.
Synonyms tenseSource: WordNet 3.0
-
remove by passing through a filter
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
rub through a strainer or process in an electric blender
Synonyms pureeSource: WordNet 3.0
-
alter the shape of (something) by stress
Source: WordNet 3.0
-
To draw with force; to extend with great effort; to stretch; as, to <i>strain</i> a rope; to <i>strain</i> the shrouds of a ship; to <i>strain</i> the cords of a musical instrument.
Source: webster1913
-
To make violent efforts.
Source: webster1913