tension
A feeling of worry, stress, or nervousness because of problems or conflict.
A state of mental or emotional strain caused by stress, conflict, or uncertainty.
When people or groups do not get along and there is anger or hostility between them.
A situation in which people, groups, or countries are unfriendly or hostile toward each other, often with a risk of conflict.
When something like a rope or wire is pulled tight.
The state of a material being stretched tightly by a force.
In science, a force that pulls something like a rope tight from both ends.
In physics, a pulling force transmitted through a string, rope, cable, or similar when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.
- Base: tension
- Plural: tension, tensions
cut the tension with a knife
1Very tense atmosphere
When a place feels very tense and uncomfortable because people are angry or nervous.
- After the argument, you could cut the tension with a knife.
- The room was so quiet you could cut the tension with a knife.
ease the tension
1Reduce stress or conflict
To make people feel less nervous, stressed, or angry.
- A joke helped ease the tension during the meeting.
- Music can ease the tension after a long day.
high tension
1High-voltage electricity system
Electric wires or equipment that carry very strong electricity.
- Workers repaired a high-tension power line.
- High-tension cables must be handled carefully.
mounting tension
1Growing stress or conflict
A feeling of stress or conflict that is getting stronger.
- There was mounting tension before the final vote.
- Mounting tension in the city led to protests.