1. to increase or make more intense the state of stress, anxiety, or strain between people or in a situation
The heated argument only served to heighten tension in the room.
A discussão acalorada apenas serviu para intensificar a tensão na sala.
2. to make a dramatic or emotional situation more acute or serious
The unexpected announcement heightened tension among the employees about potential layoffs.
O anúncio inesperado intensificou a tensão entre os funcionários sobre possíveis demissões.