stɹɛs ˈtɛnʃən ˈtɛnsɪti the action of stretching something tight tension holds the belt in the pulleys (physics) a stress that produces an elongation of an elastic physical body the direction of maximum tension moves asymptotically toward the direction of the shear feelings of hostility that are not manifest he could sense her latent hostility to him the diplomats' first concern was to reduce international tensions a balance between and interplay of opposing elements or tendencies (especially in art or literature) there is a tension created between narrative time and movie time there is a tension between these approaches to understanding history (psychology) a state of mental or emotional strain or suspense he suffered from fatigue and emotional tension stress is a vasoconstrictor the physical condition of being stretched or strained it places great tension on the leg muscles he could feel the tenseness of her body