STRAIN - Definition & Meaning for Kids
Meaning 1
Part of speech: Noun
(physics) deformation of a physical body under the action of applied forces
Categories: Deformation
Meaning 2
Part of speech: Noun
(psychology) nervousness resulting from mental stress
Example: his responsibilities were a constant strain; the mental strain of staying alert hour after hour was too much for him
Categories: Nervousness, Nerves
Meaning 3
Part of speech: Noun
injury to a muscle (often caused by overuse); results in swelling and pain
Categories: Injury, Hurt, Harm, Trauma
Meaning 4
Part of speech: Noun
an intense or violent exertion
Categories: Effort, Elbow grease, Exertion, Travail, Sweat
Meaning 5
Part of speech: Verb
use to the utmost; exert vigorously or to full capacity
Example: He really extended himself when he climbed Kilimanjaro; Don't strain your mind too much
Categories: Use, Utilize, Utilise, Apply, Employ
Meaning 6
Part of speech: Verb
become stretched or tense or taut
Example: the bodybuilder's neck muscles tensed; "the rope strained when the weight was attached
Categories: Tighten
Synonyms
Try, Tenor, Melodic phrase, Mental strain, Nervous strain
Antonyms
🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)
The word "strain" comes from Proto-Germanic *striunijaną. It started in Old English strēonan. Then it appeared in Middle English strenen. Later, people used it in Latin stringere. After that, it was Old French estreindre. Over time, it became Middle English straynen. Finally, it reached Old English strȳnd. It started in Proto-Indo-European *strew-. Then it appeared in Proto-Germanic *streuną. Later, people used it in Old English strēon. After that, it was Middle English streen. Many other languages have similar words:.
- Old Saxon: gistriuni
- Old High German: gistriuni
- Latin: strues
- Dutch: struinen
- French: étreindre
🧩 Fun Fact
Following this word's journey reveals ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges.