# straining

/ˈstɹeɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /stɹˈeɪnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/straining
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

showing that someone is trying very hard to do something, often with a lot of physical or mental effort. It describes a look or sound that is not relaxed because of this struggle.

For teachers: characterised by intense effort or exertion; appearing forced or unnatural due to the difficulty of the task. Often used to describe facial expressions, voices, or physical movements that lack ease.

## Examples

- He spoke with a straining voice as he tried to lift the heavy box.
- The athlete's straining muscles were visible as she pushed through the final meters of the race.
- The diplomat maintained a straining smile throughout the tense negotiations, clearly struggling to hide his growing frustration with the lack of progress.

## Usage notes

- Often used attributively before a noun to describe physical or emotional effort.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.