TENSENESS Synonyms: 59 Similar and Opposite Words

tenseness

noun

Definition of tenseness

as in tension

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of tenseness Parkinson’s is often marked by tremors, slow or impaired movement, tenseness or rigidity and difficulty balancing, as well as speech changes and loss of automatic motor functions like blinking or smiling, according to Mayo Clinic. — Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tenseness

Noun

Bailey was named co-deputy director in August 2025 to serve alongside Dan Bongino at a time of high tensions between FBI and Justice Department leadership over the handling of the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

— Eric Tucker, Los Angeles Times, 29 Sep. 2026
Her existence within pop spaces has come with a bit of inherent tension, as generally left-leaning pop fans have long viewed her potential political affiliations with skepticism.

— Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of tension

Noun

And this week, the 10-year Treasury yield surged to its highest level in nearly two decades after fresh data on Wednesday pointed to a strong economy and intensifying inflation nerves.

— Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2026
Guests can then calm their heightened nerves at the stately 217 Wine Bar, named after the room where King spent his fateful night.

— Nicholas DeRenzo, Travel + Leisure, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of nerves

Noun

Postpartum depression can be anxiousness or sadness, tearfulness, difficulty sleeping.

— Donna Vickroy, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026
The thought of the school year beginning, schedules changing and colder days ahead can create anxiousness — all while summer is still there to be enjoyed in August.

— Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of anxiousness

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tensed

tenseness

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“Tenseness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tenseness. Accessed 30 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of tenseness

noun

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