noun

tension

Translation

tension, strain, stress

You could feel the tension in the room.

The tension in the rope was high.

There is tension between the two countries.

tension between ((sb./sth.)) and ((sb./sth.)) strain or hostility between people or groups There is tension between the two groups.

tension in ((sth.)) the state of being stretched tight There is tension in the rope.

Synonyms: strain, stress, pressure; Antonyms: relaxation, harmony

From Latin 'tensio', from 'tendere' (to stretch). Directly related to 'tense'.

Think of the word 'attention'. When you pay attention, there's a mental 'tension' or focus.