word of the day stress (strs) n. 1. Importance, significance, or emphasis placed on something. See Synonyms at emphasis. 2. Linguistics a. The relative force with which a sound or syllable is spoken. b. The emphasis placed on the sound or syllable spoken most forcefully in a word or phrase. 3. a. The relative force of sound or emphasis given a syllable or word in accordance with a metrical pattern. b. A syllable having strong relative emphasis in a metrical pattern. 4. Accent or a mark representing such emphasis or force. 5. Physics a. An applied force or system of forces that tends to strain or deform a body. b. The internal resistance of a body to such an applied force or system of forces. 6. a. A mentally or emotionally disruptive or upsetting condition occurring in response to adverse external influences and capable of affecting physical health, usually characterized by increased heart rate, a rise in blood pressure, muscular tension, irritability, and depression. b. A stimulus or circumstance causing such a condition. 7. A state of extreme difficulty, pressure, or strain: "He presided over the economy during the period of its greatest stress and danger" (Robert J. Samuelson). tr.v. stressed, stress·ing, stress·es 1. To place emphasis on: stressed basic fire safety. 2. To give prominence to (a syllable or word) in pronouncing or in accordance with a metrical pattern. 3. To subject to physical or mental pressure, tension, or strain. 4. To subject to mechanical pressure or force. 5. To construct so as to withstand a specified stress.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Jul 2013 15:26:53 +0000
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