straitened

Straitened is an adjective that describes a state of being in a state of financial difficulty or hardship. It is often used to convey a sense of being constrained or limited by financial resources. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where one feels restricted or limited in other areas of life, such as opportunities or freedom.

The word "straitened" is derived from the verb "strait," which means to restrict or limit. The adjective "straitened" is formed by adding the suffix "-ed" to the past participle of the verb. The term has been in use since the 16th century and is commonly used in both British and American English.

In modern usage, "straitened" is often used to describe individuals or families who are struggling to make ends meet. It can also be used to describe a situation where resources are scarce or limited. For example, a company might describe itself as being in a straitened financial position if it is facing financial difficulties.

Overall, "straitened" is a useful term for describing a state of financial or resource-based limitation. It is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts to convey a sense of constraint or hardship.