stress
pressure or strain
Root
- string / strict: draw tight or bind
Other words with the string / strict root
- astringent: sharp or tightening in taste or tone
- constrict: to squeeze or draw tight
- distressed: upset, strained, or suffering pressure
- restrict: to limit or confine
- strict: demanding exact obedience
- stricture: a restriction or severe criticism
- stringent: strict and demanding
Stress is the familiar tight-pressure hook inside distressed.
The stress of the deadline made even easy questions feel sharp.