to become stretched or to experience pressure, or to make something do or experience this
She had to strain her eyes to read the fine print in the contract.
As he lifted the heavy box, he could feel his muscles strain under the weight.
The athlete felt a strain in his hamstring after an intense workout.
They strained their voices shouting over the loud music at the concert.
The bridge showed signs of strain after years of heavy traffic.
The strained relationship between the two countries finally improved after diplomatic talks.
