Strike vs. Stroke

• STRIKE 

1) to refuse to continue working because of an argument with an employer about working conditions, pay levels or job losses (Strike - Struck - Struck)

Democratization has brought workers the right to strike and join a trade union. 

We're striking for a reduction in the working week and improved safety standards.

2) to cause a person or place to suffer severely from the effects of something very unpleasant that happens suddenly
(BRITISH: Strike - struck - struck / AMERICAN: strike - struck/stricken - struck/stricken)

I've got a life insurance policy that will look after my family if disaster strikes. 

The disease has struck the whole community, sometimes wiping out whole families. 

They predict that a large earthquake will strike the east coast before the end of the decade.

3) to hit or attack someone or something forcefully or violently (strike - struck - struck)

Her car went out of control and struck an oncoming vehicle. 

The police have warned the public that the killer could strike again. 

The autopsy revealed that his murderer had struck him on the head with an iron bar. 

Have you ever been struck by lightning? 

My golf was terrible today - I just didn't strike the ball well.

• STROKE 

1) to move a hand, another part of the body or an object gently over something or someone, usually repeatedly and for pleasure (Regular verb: stroked)

Stroke the dog if you like, it won't bite.

She lovingly stroked Chris's face with the tips of her fingers