adjective
- showing signs of nervous tension or tiredness
- not natural or spontaneous; forced or artificial
- having difficulty or tension in a relationship
Examples
- Her face looked strained after working late every night.
- The conversation felt strained and awkward.
- Their marriage has been strained since the argument.
- He gave a strained smile when he saw his ex-girlfriend.
- The strained tomatoes were perfect for the sauce.
- Relations between the two countries remain strained.
- She spoke in a strained voice, trying not to cry.