This is the 3665th most frequent Portuguese word.
tenso
Tenso: Tense; stressed; strained.
Here, 'tensa' describes the atmosphere being stressful or strained due to a conflict or misunderstanding.
A situação ficou tensa entre os dois colegas.
The situation became tense between the two colleagues.
In this case, 'tenso' is used metaphorically to describe the physical state of the cable being stretched tightly.
O cabo estava tão tenso que poderia arrebentar.
The cable was so taut that it could snap.
In this sentence, 'tenso' refers to the emotional state of stress or anxiety experienced by the individual.