overstrained

Beyond its limit

Overstrained describes something pushed beyond its proper limits—muscles, nerves, patience, or relationships.

Physical overstraining comes from excessive exertion: an overstrained back from lifting.

The word applies equally to mental and emotional states: overstrained nerves, an overstrained marriage.

Something overstrained has been stretched too far and shows signs of stress or damage.

physical

exhaustion

State of utter depletion

fatigueWeariness from prolonged exertion
wearinessState of being drained
overexertionHarmful excess of effort

depleted · drained · spent · worn-out · pulled · torn · rupture · injury · damage · breakdown

emotional

burnout

Chronic occupational depletion

overwhelmedDefeated by sheer volume
frazzledMentally and physically depleted
stressedOverwhelmed by pressure

anxious · frayed · distressed · overburdened · nervous · edgy · tense · agitated · overloaded · pressured

mechanical

tension

Stretched or strained state

stressPressure, mental or vocal
loadCarried weight or burden
pressureForce upon contact

capacity · elasticity · fatigue · fracture · failure · rupture · overloaded · structural · deformation · weakened

relational

tension

Stretched or strained state

stressedOverwhelmed by pressure
frayedUnraveled at edges
stretchedPulled to lengthen

tested · pressured · fractured · damaged · deteriorating · crumbling · overloaded · burdened · fraught · troubled

Opposites

physical/mental exertion level

overstrainedrested

Having recovered energy

well-rested · refreshed · relaxed · recovered · rejuvenated

tension/stress level

overstrainedrelaxed

Free of stress

calm · at ease · unstressed · loose · slack

Family

overstrain, overstraining, overstrains

Familiarity: Top 200,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G