tensed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When her sister, Rowe, walked in that morning, she found Waldorf with her eyes wide and glazed over, her jaw tensed.

From Salon • May 27, 2026

In a flash, she springs into action, her muscles tensed and claws unsheathed.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2025

Most major office buildings, include Elephant’s, had an earthquake protocol; upon detecting a quake, microfibers in the walls tensed up to enforce the structure of the building.

From Slate • Jan. 27, 2024

When an unfamiliar man wearing a trench coat and carrying a backpack entered church one Sunday, Hollan tensed up, so alarmed by what the visitor might do that he and Kate had to leave.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2023

We both tensed as the security officers ran past our fountain.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin