Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition strain in American English

strain verb

verb
/streɪn/
1

to try very hard to do something

Example

I strained to hear what they were saying.

Example

onlookers straining for a view of the celebrity

Example

I could keep up with him, without straining myself.

Synonyms and related words
boil the ocean try work
Example

Relations between the two nations have been strained since the war.

Synonyms and related words
come between set against tear apart
3

to injure yourself by twisting or stretching a muscle too much

Example

I strained a muscle in my shoulder.

Example

Reading in poor light can strain your eyes.

Synonyms and related words
injure harm wound
4

to separate a solid from a liquid by pouring it into a strainer

Synonyms and related words
card chase chip away
5

to pull at something very hard

Example

The elephants strained at their ropes.

Synonyms and related words
drag heave tear at
5.1

to push against something very hard

Example

Tommy was straining against the straps of his car seat.

Synonyms and related words
push shove heave
Definition strain in American English