First Known Use: 1533
Dictionary
1tension
noun ten·sion \ˈten(t)-shən\
: a feeling of nervousness that makes you unable to relax
: a feeling of nervousness, excitement, or fear that is created in a movie, book, etc.
: a state in which people, groups, countries, etc., disagree with and feel anger toward each other
Full Definition of TENSION
1
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
a : inner striving, unrest, or imbalance often with physiological indication of emotion b : a state of latent hostility or opposition between individuals or groups c : a balance maintained in an artistic work between opposing forces or elements
4
: a device to produce a desired tension (as in a loom)
— ten·sion·al \ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nəl\ adjective
— ten·sion·less \ˈten(t)-shən-ləs\ adjective
See tension defined for English-language learners
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Origin of TENSION
Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin tension-, tensio, from tendere
Other Psychology Terms
2tension
transitive verb
ten·sionedten·sion·ing \ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)niŋ\
Definition of TENSION
: to subject to tension; especially : to tighten to a desired or appropriate degree
— ten·sion·er \-sh(ə-)nər\ noun
First Known Use of TENSION
1891
TENSIONLESS Defined for Kids
tension
noun ten·sion \ˈten-shən\
Definition of TENSION for Kids
1
: the act of straining or stretching : the condition of being strained or stretched <I adjusted the strap's tension.>
2
: a state of worry or nervousness
3
: a state of unfriendliness <There was tension between the two groups.>
Medical Dictionary
tension
noun ten·sion \ˈten-chən\
Medical Definition of TENSION
1
a : the act or action of stretching or the condition or degree of being stretched to stiffness <muscular tension> b : stress 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
—ten·sion·al \ˈtench-nəl, -ən-əl\ adjective
—ten·sion·less \ˈten-chən-ləs\ adjective
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