Definition of tension

• feelings of hostility that are not manifest; "he could sense her latent hostility to him"; "the diplomats first concern was to reduce international tensions"
• (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"