Strained

"Relations between the United States and Guatemala traditionally have been close, although at times strained by human rights and civil/military issues."

"The gale strained the timbers of the ship."

"Sitting in back, I strained to hear the speaker."

"A man straineth, liveth, then dieth."

"Babies don’t seem to like strained peas, even though the puree is easy for them to eat and digest."

"Ever since the fight our relation has been strained."

"A strained smile."