[strɛs], (Noun)

Definitions:
- pressure or tension exerted on a material object
(e.g: the distribution of stress is uniform across the bar)

- a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances
(e.g: he's obviously under a lot of stress)

- particular emphasis or importance
(e.g: we should lay greater stress on education)


Phrases:

Origin:
Middle English (denoting hardship or force exerted on a person for the purpose of compulsion): shortening of distress, or partly from Old French estresse ‘narrowness, oppression’, based on Latin strictus ‘drawn tight’ (see strict)

[strɛs], (Verb)

Definitions:
- give particular emphasis or importance to (a point, statement, or idea) made in speech or writing
(e.g: they stressed the need for reform)

- subject to pressure or tension
(e.g: this type of workout does stress the shoulder and knee joints)

- cause mental or emotional strain or tension in
(e.g: I avoid many of the things that used to stress me before)


Phrases:

Origin:
Middle English (denoting hardship or force exerted on a person for the purpose of compulsion): shortening of distress, or partly from Old French estresse ‘narrowness, oppression’, based on Latin strictus ‘drawn tight’ (see strict)