1. noun /stɹɛs/
a) The internal distribution of force per unit area (pressure) within a body reacting to applied forces which causes strain or deformation and is typically symbolised by σ
Go easy on him, hes been under a lot of stress lately.
b) externally applied to a body which cause internal stress within the body.
Some people put the stress on the first syllable of “controversy”; others put it on the second.
2. verb /stɹɛs/
a) To apply force to (a body or structure) causing strain.
“Emphasis” is stressed on the first syllable, but “emphatic” is stressed on the second.
b) To apply emotional pressure to (a person or animal).
I must stress that this information is given in strict confidence.
Wikipedia foundation.