Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tensile strength

Noun

/ˈtɛnsaɪl strɛŋkθ/

Definition

The maximum amount of tensile (stretching) stress that a material can withstand without breaking.

Examples

The tensile strength of steel makes it a popular choice for construction.
Before using a new composite material, engineers always test its tensile strength to ensure safety.
In a materials test, the tensile strength of the plastic sample was significantly lower than expected.

Meaning

Tensile strength is a measure of how much force a material can endure while being stretched or pulled before it ultimately fails. It is an essential property in engineering and materials science, indicating the durability of materials used in various applications.