Meaning & use
strain
Last updated
To exert or stretch something to the point of possible damage, or to make a great effort.
See it in a sentence
He strained his back lifting the heavy box.
Relations between the two countries have been under strain for years.
A note on using this word
Also a noun referring to a distinct variety, especially of a virus, plant, or bacteria, as in "a new strain of flu."
Words with a similar meaning
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Another way to use it
2. noun
A distinct variety of a plant, animal, or microorganism.
Scientists identified a new strain of the virus.
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