Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun tenseness

2 senses of tenseness

Sense 1
tension, tensity, tenseness, tautness -- (the physical condition of being stretched or strained; "it places great tension on the leg muscles"; "he could feel the tenseness of her body")
       => condition, status -- (a state at a particular time; "a condition (or state) of disrepair"; "the current status of the arms negotiations")

Sense 2
tension, tenseness, stress -- ((psychology) a state of mental or emotional strain or suspense; "he suffered from fatigue and emotional tension"; "stress is a vasoconstrictor")
       => strain, mental strain, nervous strain -- ((psychology) nervousness resulting from mental stress; "his responsibilities were a constant strain"; "the mental strain of staying alert hour after hour was too much for him")