tensile

Tensile (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does tensile mean?

Having the ability to resist breaking or being stretched apart when a force is applied to a material.
"The bridge was designed to withstand high tensile forces."

Detailed Meaning of Tensile

When something is described as "tensile," it means that it can withstand tension, or a pulling force, without breaking or deforming. This property is important in many fields, including engineering, construction, and materials science. Materials with high tensile strength are often used in applications that require strength and durability, such as cables, ropes, and suspension bridges. The term "tensile" is often used in discussions of materials testing and stress analysis, where the strength and durability of a material are important factors. Overall, the term "tensile" refers to the ability of a material to withstand tension and resist breaking or deformation when a force is applied to it.

Example Sentences for Tensile

1. The strength of the rope is due to its high tensile strength.
2. Tensile tests are used to determine the strength of a material.
3. Tensile stress can cause materials to deform or break.
4. The building's framework is made of materials with high tensile strength.
5. Engineers are constantly looking for ways to improve the tensile strength of materials.
6. The fabric's tensile properties make it ideal for use in outdoor clothing.

Origin and Etymology of Tensile

The adjective 'tensile' is derived from the Latin word 'tensus,' which is the past participle of 'tendere,' meaning 'to stretch' or 'to extend.' Therefore, 'tensile' etymologically conveys the ability of a material to withstand stretching or extension without breaking or undergoing deformation when a force is applied. This term is often used in engineering and materials science to describe the strength of a material in response to tension or pulling forces. The etymology of 'tensile' underscores the concept of resisting stretching or extension, highlighting the material's ability to maintain its integrity and shape under the influence of external forces.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective tensile:

rigid

inflexible

stretchable

unyielding

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Tensile

1. Tensile strength is an important factor in determining the safety of equipment.
2. The steel cables have a high tensile strength, making them perfect for suspension bridges.
3. The balloon's tensile strength allows it to expand without bursting.
4. Tensile properties are often tested under extreme conditions to simulate real-world scenarios.
5. Understanding the tensile behavior of materials is crucial in many fields, including construction and aerospace engineering.
6. The tensile strength of steel makes it ideal for construction.
7. Engineers tested the tensile properties of the new material.
8. Spider silk is known for its incredible tensile strength.
9. Tensile forces in the bridge's cables keep it sturdy.
10. The elastic band exhibited impressive tensile resilience.
11. The astronaut's suit is designed to withstand tensile stress.
12. The rope's tensile capacity makes it perfect for climbing.
13. The cable's tensile properties ensure a secure suspension bridge.
14. The fabric's tensile resistance prevents tearing.
15. Rubber bands rely on their tensile elasticity.
16. The research focused on improving the tensile strength of composites.
17. Engineers examined the tensile behavior of the material under load.
18. Tensile forces act on the sail of a sailing ship.
19. The tensile properties of the metal made it ideal for aircraft design.
20. The tensile test measured the material's breaking point.
21. Tensile stress can cause deformation in materials.
22. The cable's tensile capacity determines its weight-bearing ability.
23. The material's tensile limit was higher than expected.
24. Tensile testing assesses a material's ability to withstand forces.
25. Engineers seek materials with high tensile strength for safety.