tension
tension Lexical Profile
tension Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A state of mental or emotional strain, nervous anxiety, or suspense.
"The sudden silence in the courtroom only increased the palpable tension among the spectators."
A relationship between ideas, groups, or qualities with conflicting demands or implications, characterized by mutual hostility or opposition.
"Diplomatic talks were scheduled to ease the growing political tension between the two neighboring nations."
The state of being stretched tight, or the physical pulling force transmitted axially by a string, cable, chain, or similar continuous object.
"The structural engineer calculated the maximum tension that the suspension bridge cables could safely withstand."
Electromotive force or electrical potential difference, expressed in volts.
"Warning signs were posted along the perimeter of the high-tension power lines."
• verb
To apply a pulling force to something so that it becomes stretched tight or taut (especially a cable, belt, wire, or fabric).
"The technician carefully tensioned the drive belt before securing the motor housing."
• Rhymes for tension
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 16th century from Middle French tension, from Latin tensio ('a stretching'), derived from the past participle stem of tendere ('to stretch, extend, or direct').