tensed - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

Post

tensed

|tensed|

/tɛns/

(tense)

tight or time-related

Base Form	Plural	3rd Person Sing.	Past	Past Participle	Present Participle	Comparative	Comparative	Superlative	Superlative	Noun	Verb	Verb	Adjective	Adjective	Adjective
tense	tenses	tenses	tensed	tensed	tensing	tenser	more tensed	tensest	most tensed	tenseness	tenses	tensing	tenser	tensest	tensed

Etymology

Etymology Information

'tense' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tensus', where the root 'tendere' meant 'to stretch'.

Historical Evolution

'tense' changed from Old French 'tendu' (from Latin 'tensus') and Middle English forms into the modern English word 'tense'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'stretched' or 'pulled tight', but over time it evolved to include meanings related to 'rigid' or 'nervous' (i.e., 'stretched' in a figurative sense).

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

past tense or past participle form of 'tense' (to make or become tight; to cause to be nervous or strained).

She tensed as the phone began to ring.

Synonyms

tightened strained

Antonyms

relaxed loosened

Adjective 1

made tense; showing nervousness, stiffness, or muscular tightness.

He stood with his shoulders tensed, waiting for the verdict.

Synonyms

anxious stiff nervous

Antonyms

Examples

Last updated: 2025/12/11 13:28