Tension refers to a feeling of being stretched, tight, or nervous due to stress or conflict. It can also describe the force pulling or holding something back, like a tightly wound rope. Full definition
There is a palpable sense of tension between the two of you much of the time. (thecouplescenter.org)
The release of tension in her muscles was terrific. (babygaga.com)
The subject of his portraiture embraces various emotions and expressions in a silent atmosphere, while we also feel our own strength and weakness inside ourselves in tension in his work. (tomiokoyamagallery.com)