Tense

Definition of tense:

Tensest.

part of speech: adjective

Strained to stiffness: rigid.

part of speech: noun

A change in the form of a verb, showing the time of the action expressed; a verb form which indicates a certain distinction of time by changing its form or by the help of auxiliaries.

Tenser.

part of speech: adjective

Drawn tightly; not lax; severely strained; rigid; tense nerves.

part of speech: adjective

Strained tight.

part of speech: noun

Form of a verb to indicate time.

part of speech: noun

The form of a verb to indicate the time of the action.

Usage examples for tense:

• Read it- quick," I heard Garrick's tense voice repeating. "Guy Garrick", Arthur B. Reeve.

• There was as much as a dozen seconds or so of tense silence between them. "The Betrayal", E. Phillips Oppenheim.

• There was a moment of tense silence as husband and wife stared into each other's eyes. "The Shadow of the East", E. M. Hull.

• She settled herself in her seat, preparing for a tense hour. "Man to Man", Jackson Gregory.