1. mental or emotional strain; stress or anxiety
2. the state of being stretched tight; tightness
3. unfriendly or hostile feelings between people or groups

Examples

• The tension in the room was obvious after their argument.
• She felt tension in her shoulders from sitting at the computer all day.
• Check the tension of the guitar strings before playing.
• There has been growing tension between the two countries.
• The rope snapped under the tension of the heavy load.
• Deep breathing exercises can help reduce tension and stress.
• Political tensions have risen sharply this month.