strained
strained /streɪnd/ adjective
1 F0 If a relationship is strained, problems are spoiling that relationship: » Relations between the two countries have become strained (= difficult) recently.Thesaurus+: ↑Anxious and worried2 F0 showing that someone is nervous or worried: » She was looking strained and had dark circles beneath her eyes.» Jean felt uncomfortable but managed to force a strained smile.Thesaurus+: ↑Anxious and worried |