Meaning & Definition of word "Straining"
to
Straining
/ˈstreɪnɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. The act of exerting effort or force to do something, typically involving physical or mental pressure.
- Example: She was straining to lift the heavy box off the ground.
- 2. To stretch or tighten something beyond its usual limits.
- Example: He was straining the fabric of the shirt by pulling it too hard.
- 3. To work hard to achieve something or to overcome a difficulty.
- Example: The students were straining to understand the complex concepts during the lecture.
- 4. To filter or separate something, often by using a sieve or filter.
- Example: After cooking the pasta, she was straining it to remove the excess water.
Etymology
From Middle English strene, strain, from Old French estrain, variant of estrain, from Latin extraneus ‘foreign’.
Common Phrases and Expressions
straining at the leash:
Eager to move or act, but being held back.
straining to hear:
Making an effort to listen carefully.
straining under the weight:
Experiencing stress or pressure due to external factors.
Related Words
strain:
To exert effort or pressure.
strained:
In a state of tension or difficulty.
strenuous:
Requiring or using great effort.
Slang Meanings of straining
Meaning: Working too hard or stressing over something.
Example Sentence: Stop straining, it's just a game!
Meaning: To try too hard to impress others.
Example Sentence: He was straining for laughs at the party.