Strain means to exert or stretch to the maximum or to injure by too much exertion.
(verb)
- An example of strain is for a spectator to stretch over his seat to see a concert.
- An example of strain is for a football player to pull a muscle from playing too roughly.
A strain is a bodily injury due to overexertion or an excessive demand on resources.
(noun)
- An example of strain is a pulled muscle.
- An example of strain is reading a book in the dark, causing pressure on the eyes.