tension

From Wiktionary
tension is on the Academic Word List.

Pronunciation[change]

Noun[change]

Singular
tension

Plural
tensions

  1. (countable & uncountable) Hidden anger or fear.
    No one said anything, but I could feel the tension in the room.
    Tensions between the two countries have been rising.
  2. The state of being tight.
    There is too much tension in the rope. It might break.