noun / verb
tension
TEN-shun/ˈtenʃn/
A state of strain produced by pulling forces.
The opposing pulls create tension in the tightly stretched rope.
Etymology
The original 'stretched condition' supplies the physical image behind tension. The word also extended to mental strain, while its Latin ancestor already had a sense of struggle or contest.
In context
changing both the bolt adjustment and the tension in the bolt. We may use this to simulate additional tightening or loosening of the bolts
More examples
- She tensions the belt before starting the machine.
- Loosening the guitar string reduces its tension.
- Too much tension can snap a thin wire.
Forms
tension · tensions · tensioned · tensioning
tensioner noun — A device that keeps something stretched tight.
Similar words
- stress
- Includes internal forces from compression or twisting, not just pulling.
- tightness
- Describes how taut something is rather than the pulling force.