definition of
straining

[1] #1 straining n. [strain] an intense or violent exertion. wn

[2] #2 straining s. [arduous, strenuous] taxing to the utmost; testing powers of endurance; "his final, straining burst of speed"; "a strenuous task"; "your willingness after these six arduous days to remain here"- F.D.Roosevelt. wn

[3] #3 straining n. [distortion, overrefinement, torture, twisting] the act of distorting something so it seems to mean something it was not intended to mean. wn