strain

An intense or violent exertion.

(biology) a group of organisms within a species that differ in trivial ways from similar groups.

“a new strain of microorganisms”

A special variety of domesticated animals within a species.

“he created a new strain of sheep”

The general meaning or substance of an utterance.

An effortful attempt to attain a goal.

(psychology) nervousness resulting from mental stress.

“his responsibilities were a constant strain”

“the mental strain of staying alert hour after hour was too much for him”

Injury to a muscle (often caused by overuse); results in swelling and pain.

Difficulty that causes worry or emotional tension.

“she endured the stresses and strains of life”

(physics) deformation of a physical body under the action of applied forces.

A succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence.

The act of singing.

Use to the utmost; exert vigorously or to full capacity.

“Don't strain your mind too much”

To exert much effort or energy.

“straining our ears to hear”

Rub through a strainer or process in an electric blender.

Alter the shape of (something) by stress.

Cause to be tense and uneasy or nervous or anxious.

Test the limits of.

Become stretched or tense or taut.

“the rope strained when the weight was attached”

Remove by passing through a filter.

Separate by passing through a sieve or other straining device to separate out coarser elements.