[ten.sion] n [MF or L; MF, fr. L tension-, tensio, fr. tendere] (1533) 1 a: the act or action of stretching or the condition or degree of being stretched to stiffness: tautness 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 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 adj -- ten.sion.less adj
[2]tension vt ten.sioned ; ten.sion.ing (1891): to subject to tension; esp: to tighten to a desired or appropriate degree -- ten.sion.er n