/ streɪnd; NAmE / adjective
1.
showing the effects of worry or pressure
SYN tense :
Her face looked strained and weary.
He spoke in a low, strained voice.
2.
( of a situation ) not relaxed or friendly
SYN tense :
There was a strained atmosphere throughout the meeting.
Relations between the two families are strained.
3.
not natural; produced by a deliberate effort
SYN forced :
She gave a strained laugh.