tension

verb

tensioned; tensioning ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)niŋ 

transitive verb

: to subject to tension

especially : to tighten to a desired or appropriate degree

tensioner

ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nər 

noun

Examples of tension in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Here are some of the issues at stake for various countries and regions: Taiwan tensions Both the U.S. and China have said Taiwan will sit atop the agenda. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 11 May 2026

Trump and Netanyahu to meet for talks on Gaza peace plan, Iran tensions MAJOR HEADLINES ‘CLAN DYNAMICS’ – Minnesota fraud probe raises questions about Ilhan Omar's Somaliland position. —FOXNews.com, 29 Dec. 2025

Iran tensions Britain's maritime agency warned on June 11 that increased tensions in the Middle East may lead to an escalation in military activity that could impact shipping in critical waterways. —Daphne Psaledakis, USA Today, 11 May 2025

In terms of speech, this means the neurons needed to convert the desire to say a word into the muscle activity needed to control the mouth and tongue, expel sufficient breath, and tension the vocal cords. —John Timmer, Ars Technica, 20 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

derivative of tension entry 1

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tension

• high-tension
• premenstrual tension
• surface tension
• tension headache

Rhymes for tension

• gentian
• mention
• pension
• apprehension
• comprehension
• condescension
• hypertension
• hypotension
• reinvention
• reprehension
• resuspension
• attention

Kids Definition

tension

noun

ten·​sion

ˈten-chən

1

a

: the act or action of stretching or the condition or degree of being stretched to stiffness

tension of a muscle

b

: stress entry 1 sense 1c

2

a

: a state of mental unrest that is often accompanied by physical signs (as perspiring) of emotion

b

: a state of unfriendliness between individuals or groups

Medical Definition

tension

noun

ten·​sion ˈten-chən 

1

a

: the act or action of stretching or the condition or degree of being stretched to stiffness

muscular tension

b

: stress sense 1b

2

a

: either of two balancing forces causing or tending to cause extension

b

: the stress resulting from the elongation of an elastic body

3

: inner striving, unrest, or imbalance often with physiological indication of emotion

4

: partial pressure

tensional

ˈtench-nəl, -ən-ᵊl 

adjective

tensionless

ˈten-chən-ləs 

adjective