tension

noun

• 1the state of being stretched tight:the parachute keeps the cable under tension as it drops
• the state of having the muscles stretched tight, especially as causing strain or discomfort:the elimination of neck tension can relieve headaches
• a strained state or condition resulting from forces acting in opposition to each other.
• the degree of tightness of stitches in knitting and machine sewing.
• electromotive force.

• 2mental or emotional strain:a mind that is affected by stress or tension cannot think as clearly
• a strained political or social state or relationship:the coup followed months of tension between the military and the government racial tensions
• a relationship between ideas or qualities with conflicting demands or implications:the basic tension between freedom and control

verb

• apply a force to (something) that tends to stretch it.