Straining

/ˈstreɪnɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

The act of exerting effort or force to do something, typically involving physical or mental pressure.

She was straining to lift the heavy box off the ground.

To stretch or tighten something beyond its usual limits.

He was straining the fabric of the shirt by pulling it too hard.

To work hard to achieve something or to overcome a difficulty.

The students were straining to understand the complex concepts during the lecture.

To filter or separate something, often by using a sieve or filter.

After cooking the pasta, she was straining it to remove the excess water.

From Middle English strene, strain, from Old French estrain, variant of estrain, from Latin extraneus ‘foreign’.

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.

strain

To exert effort or pressure.

strained

In a state of tension or difficulty.

strenuous

Requiring or using great effort.

Working too hard or stressing over something.

Stop straining, it's just a game!

To try too hard to impress others.

He was straining for laughs at the party.